Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
MATERIALS AND ARTEFACTS PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK INDUSTRY IN GHANA
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MATERIALS AND ARTEFACTS PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK INDUSTRY IN GHANA
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Applied Technology
Class: SHS 3
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 2
Grade code: 3.4.2.LI.3
Strand code: 4
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 3.4.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 3.4.2.LI.3
Theme: WOOD TECHNOLOGY
Subtheme: MATERIALS AND ARTEFACTS PRODUCTION IN WOODWORK INDUSTRY IN GHANA
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In Ghana, our forests are rich with a vast diversity of trees. However, for decades, our woodwork and construction industries have heavily relied on a few "popular" species like Odum (Iroko), Mahogany, Wawa, and Sapele. This over-reliance puts immense pressure on these trees, leading to deforestation and increased costs. This lesson explores the exciting world of "Lesser-Known" and "Lesser-Used" timber species. By understanding these alternative woods, we can promote sustainable practices, create new economic opportunities for local artisans, and ensure our precious forests are preserved for future generations.
This lesson focuses on expanding our understanding of timber resources beyond the famous few. Let's break down the key ideas. A. Primary/Commercial Timber Species
Before we discuss LKS and LUS, we must understand what they are *not*. Primary or Commercial species are the timbers that dominate the market. They are well-known, in high demand, and have established supply chains. Characteristics: High market demand, well-documented properties, readily available (though becoming scarce), and accepted by consumers. Ghanaian Examples: Odum (*Milicia excelsa*): Very durable, termite-resistant. Used for high-quality furniture, doors, windows, and construction. Mahogany (*Khaya ivorensis*): Beautiful reddish-brown colour, easy to work. Used for luxury furniture, veneers, and boat building. Wawa (*Triplochiton scleroxylon*): Lightweight, pale colour, soft. Used for plywood, carving, coffins, and interior fittings. Sapele (*Entandrophragma cylindricum*): Similar to mahogany but with a distinct striped grain. Used for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
The problem is, we are cutting these trees down faster than they can grow back. This is where LKS and LUS become very important. B. Lesser-Known Timber Species (LKS)
These are timber species that are abundant in the forest but are not well-known in the commercial market. The main issue is a lack of information and awareness. Definition: LKS are commercially unexploited or underexploited tree species whose properties, potential uses, and processing characteristics are not widely documented or known to loggers, processors, and end-users. Key Idea: The problem isn't that they are "bad" wood; it's that people simply don't know about them. Ghanaian Examples: Denya (*Cylicodiscus gabunensis*): An extremely hard, heavy, and durable timber. It is naturally resistant to decay and termites. Potential use: Heavy construction, railway sleepers, bridges, and durable flooring. Dahoma (*Piptadeniastrum africanum*): A durable, yellowish-brown wood. It has an unpleasant smell when freshly cut but this disappears on drying. Potential use: General construction, flooring, and furniture frames. Kusia (*Nauclea diderrichii*): A hard, heavy, yellow-coloured wood that is very durable and resistant to water and insects. Potential use: Marine construction (piers, boats), outdoor furniture, and flooring. C. Lesser-Used Timber Species (LUS)