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Computer aided design

Lesson Plan

Episode 1. Starter: The benefits of using a computer - Duration 5 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Divide the class into 3 groups and ask each to draw a perfect circle. One group uses a computer programme, one uses a set of compasses and the other uses just a pen.	To consider the properties of CAD.	Computers Pens and pencils Compasses

Teacher Notes: Episode 1. Starter: The benefits of using a computer

Episode 2. Pros and cons - Duration 10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
In pairs, students look at pictures of a number of different objects and decide whether they think the objects are manufactured by hand or by using CAM. Students identify the pros and cons of designing and manufacturing products using CAD. They should recognise that the the type of product being manufactured will influence whether a factor is a pro or a con.	To examine the pros and cons of CAM processes.	Student Worksheets 1-2

Teacher Notes: Episode 2. Pros and cons

Episode 3. Case studies - Duration 10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students consider the fact that the British Army is one of the biggest potential clients in the country for manufacturing companies. They then examine a design brief for the production of an Identification Tag. Students write design considerations on post-it notes and stick them on the whiteboard to create a class task analysis. Students are presented with information on three differing tasks undertaken by the British Armed Forces and consider the difficulty of identifying universal design considerations in the face of such diverse roles.	To determine design considerations from a brief.	Post it notes Slides

Teacher Notes: Episode 3. Case studies

Episode 4: Design brief - Duration 20 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Using instructions on the Student Worksheets and a CAD program, students produce a 2d design of their ID tag.	To develop and practice CAD techniques.	Student Worksheets 3-4 Computers with CAD software available for use

Teacher Notes: Episode 4: Design brief

Episode 5. Plenary: Evaluation - Duration 10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students evaluate the success of their product using a product analysis grid. As a class students discuss the success of their own designs as well as the value of CAD/CAM to the British Armed Forces.	To evaluate a product against a design brief.	Student Worksheet 5

Teacher Notes: Episode 5. Plenary: Evaluation

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