Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Materials: Characteristics and Composition

Objectives

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to provide students with a basic understanding of the characteristics and compositions of materials, highlighting the importance of this knowledge for science studies and everyday life. By introducing concepts of soft and hard materials, it aims to develop practical and observational skills that are fundamental for scientific experimentation and problem-solving, concepts that are highly valued in the job market.

Main Objectives

1. Identify different types of materials and their basic characteristics.

2. Understand the composition of materials and how this composition influences their properties.

3. Recognize the importance of materials in the context of science studies and everyday life.

Side Objectives

1. Develop observation and classification skills.
2. Foster curiosity and interest in science through practical activities.

Introduction

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to introduce the lesson topic in an engaging and relevant way, connecting the content with everyday situations and the job market. By presenting curiosities and practical examples, the goal is to awaken students' interest and prepare them for the practical activities that will follow.

Contextualization

Materials are present in all aspects of our daily lives, from the clothes we wear to the toys we play with. Understanding the characteristics and composition of materials helps us choose the most suitable one for each situation, such as using a more durable material to build a bridge or a softer material to make a pillow. This lesson will explore these differences and teach us to observe the world around us with a more attentive eye.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Did you know that engineers need to know materials very well to build buildings, bridges, and roads? Materials like concrete and steel are chosen for their specific properties, such as hardness and strength. Additionally, in the technology industry, materials like silicon are essential for making microchips that we use in computers and phones. Knowing the properties of materials is fundamental for many professions, from fashion to civil engineering.

Initial Activity

To spark students' interest, start the class by showing different objects made of various materials (for example, a piece of fabric, a stone, plastic, and a sponge). Ask the students: "Which of these materials do you think are softer? And which are harder?" Let them touch and feel the materials, encouraging curiosity and observation.

Development

Duration: (40 - 45 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to deepen students' knowledge about the characteristics and composition of materials through practical and reflective activities. By building a shelter and solving mini challenges, students develop observation, analysis, and collaboration skills that are essential both for studying science and for future applications in the job market.

Covered Topics

1. Characteristics of materials: hardness, softness, strength.
2. Composition of materials: wood, plastic, metal, fabric.
3. Importance of materials in everyday life and the job market.

Reflections on the Theme

Facilitate a discussion with students about the importance of understanding the characteristics and composition of materials. Ask how this knowledge can be useful in everyday situations, such as choosing a suitable material to build a house or make a toy. Encourage students to think about professions that rely on knowledge of materials, such as engineers, architects, and product designers.

Mini Challenge

Building a Shelter

Students will be divided into groups and challenged to build a small shelter using a variety of materials provided by the teacher. The goal is to create a shelter that is durable and functional, utilizing the knowledge gained about the characteristics of materials.

Instructions

1. Divide the students into groups of 3 to 4.
2. Distribute a variety of materials to each group (cardboard, popsicle sticks, fabric, sponges, etc.).
3. Explain that each group must build a shelter that is functional and durable.
4. Allow students to discuss and plan the construction before starting.
5. Give 20 minutes for the construction of the shelter.
6. After construction, each group must present their shelter and explain why they chose each material.
7. Conduct a strength test (by placing light weights on the shelters) and functionality test (simulating rain with a water sprinkler).

Objective: Develop practical and collaborative skills by applying knowledge of material characteristics to solve a real problem.

Duration: (35 - 40 minutes)

Evaluation Exercises

1. List three materials you used in building the shelter and describe an important characteristic of each.
2. Explain why it is important to choose the right material for each type of construction.
3. Draw an object from your daily life and identify the materials that were used to build it. Explain why these materials were chosen.

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to consolidate learning, allowing students to reflect on the activities conducted and understand the relevance of the knowledge acquired. By promoting a final discussion and recapping content, the aim is to strengthen the connection between theory and practice, encouraging the application of knowledge in everyday contexts and the job market.

Discussion

Facilitate a final discussion with students, asking them to share their experiences and learning during the construction of the shelter. Inquire about the challenges encountered and how they solved problems using knowledge about the characteristics of materials. Encourage reflection on how this knowledge can be applied in everyday situations and different professions.

Summary

Recap the main content covered in the lesson, such as the characteristics of materials (hardness, softness, strength), their compositions (wood, plastic, metal, fabric), and the importance of these materials in everyday life and the job market. Highlight how students applied this knowledge in practice during the mini challenge of building the shelter.

Closing

Explain to students that the lesson connected theory, practice, and applications by allowing them to identify and utilize different materials to solve a real problem. Reinforce the importance of understanding the characteristics of materials to make informed decisions in various everyday situations and in many professions. Thank everyone for their participation and encourage them to continue exploring the world of materials around them.