Exploring Metals

Note: You will need laptops. If they are not in the metalshop, or in the woodshop, you may need to source some. Do that BEFORE class.

Title: Exploring Metals: Identification, Properties, and Applications

Objective: The aim of this research assignment is to introduce metalwork students to various metals, their properties, and their common uses in metalwork. This assignment is designed for a substitute teacher with no experience in the subject.

Materials Needed:

  1. Internet access
  2. Research materials (websites, articles, online resources)

Assignment Outline:

Introduction (15 minutes):

  1. Briefly introduce the importance of metals in everyday life and their significance in metalworking.
  2. Emphasize that metals have unique properties that make them suitable for different applications in construction, manufacturing, and art.

Activity 1: Identifying Metals (30 minutes):

  1. Provide a list of common metals (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper, gold, silver, iron) and ask students to find images or descriptions of each.
  2. Instruct students to identify the physical appearance of each metal and note any distinctive features.
  3. Encourage students to explore online resources to learn more about where these metals are commonly found.

Activity 2: Properties of Metals (30 minutes):

  1. Assign each student or group a specific metal from the list provided earlier.
  2. Instruct students to research and compile information on the properties of their assigned metal (e.g., color, density, melting point, conductivity).
  3. Ask students to present their findings to the class in a brief summary.

Activity 3: Applications in Metalwork (40 minutes):

  1. Discuss the concept of metalworking and its various applications (e.g., construction, manufacturing, artistic creations).
  2. Assign each student or group a metal from the list and ask them to research and identify common uses in metalwork.
  3. Have students create a simple presentation or poster showcasing the uses of their assigned metal in different metalworking applications.

Conclusion and Reflection (15 minutes):

  1. Ask students to reflect on what they found most interesting about the properties and applications of metals.
  2. Discuss as a class the diversity of metals and their roles in different aspects of metalwork.
  3. Conclude by emphasizing the importance of metals in our daily lives and their significance in various industries.

Assessment Criteria: Students will be assessed based on:

  1. Completion and accuracy of the metal identification activity.
  2. Quality of information presented regarding the properties of the assigned metal.
  3. Creativity and understanding demonstrated in showcasing the uses of the assigned metal in metalwork applications.
  4. Participation in class discussions and reflections.

Note: This assignment is designed to be straightforward, accessible, and engaging for both students and substitute teachers. Emphasize the importance of using reliable online resources and encourage students to collaborate and share their findings with the class.