SUBJECT: MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY - METAL YEAR 7 & 8

THE PURPOSE OF THE COURSE:

• Materials and technology is an area of study dealing with the design and production of manufactured items as well as focussing on the effect of technology on society and the individual
• Students develop a body of knowledge and skills relating to the use of tools and materials to resolve problems and to enhance their control over the environment
• Students are made aware of the changing needs of the individual and society, and learn to develop their ideas with aesthetic and functional considerations
• Students become aware of environmental factors in the production of materials
• Students examine and discuss materials with respect to properties, integration, cost and availability.
• Students become familiar with the principles of engineering
• Students read working drawing and understand the conventions used in their production
• Students develop skills in conceptualising ideas through drawing and construction

THE CONTENT OF THE COURSE:

• Safe and correct use of hand tools and machines
• Non ferrous Metals - Copper and its alloys
• Surface Treatment - Enamelling
• Joining Materials - Soldering and Riveting
• Production of Metals - The mining and refining of a metal
• Design/Production - Design and make an article of metal according to given constraints

THE ASSESSMENT IN THE COURSE:
Work Requirements:

Design and production:

• Demonstrate safe and competent work habits
• Participate in all workshop activities
• Demonstrate an understanding of design principlest

Investigation:

• Written investigation
• Materials testing

Evaluation:

• Reflection and analysis of own work
• Materials testing

Assessment Task:

These work requirements are assessed by evaluating the completed product taking into consideration originality, creativity, development of skills and appropriate use of materials and techniques. Some design and research assignments will be set as homework.