Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1 / SSS 1)
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 5
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Garment Making
Curriculum Theme: Trade
Previous Lesson: Sewing Machine Problems: Rectifying Common Faults.
Topic: BASIC STITCHES
Subject Matter: Types of basic stitches, Uses of stitches, Temporary stitches, Permanent stitches

Specific Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

Cognitive Domain:

Define basic stitches.
List different types of basic stitches.
State the uses of various basic stitches.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the importance of using appropriate stitches in garment making.
Show interest in learning and practicing different stitches.

Psychomotor Domain:

Demonstrate how to make at least two types of temporary stitches.
Differentiate between temporary and permanent stitches through practical application.

Work cooperatively with peers when practicing stitch making.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC). (2012). 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum: Home Economics for Senior Secondary Schools.
State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools.
Macmillan. (2010). Home Economics for Senior Secondary Schools Book 1.
https://www.dummies.com/crafts/sewing/stitches/hand-sewing-basics-temporary-stitches/
https://www.sewingmachinefun.com/types-of-hand-stitches/

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Stitch samples album
Needles
Threads (contrasting colours)
Fabric scraps
Scissors
Tailor’s chalk or marking pencil

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson introduces pupils to the foundational skills of basic stitches, which are essential for all garment construction and repair. Understanding different stitches enables pupils to create durable and neat garments and to perform simple mending tasks in their daily lives.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils are expected to have basic knowledge of sewing tools and equipment.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

BASIC STITCHES

Definition of Basic Stitches

Basic stitches are fundamental hand-sewing techniques used to join pieces of fabric, finish edges, or add decorative elements. They form the foundation for all sewing projects.

Types of Basic Stitches

Basic stitches are generally categorised into two main types:

Temporary Stitches
Permanent Stitches

Uses of Basic Stitches

Basic stitches are used for the following purposes:

Joining two or more pieces of fabric together.
Finishing raw edges of fabric to prevent fraying.
Gathering fabric to create fullness.
Holding fabric layers in place temporarily before permanent stitching.
Creating decorative designs on fabric.
Repairing torn garments or seams.

Temporary Stitches

Temporary stitches are loose, easily removable stitches used to hold fabric layers together temporarily before permanent stitching is applied. They are also known as basting or tacking stitches.

The following are examples of temporary stitches:

Even Basting/Tacking Stitch: Used for holding two or more layers of fabric firmly together, with stitches of equal length on both sides.
Uneven Basting/Tacking Stitch: Used for holding two or more layers of fabric lightly together, with long stitches on the upper side and short stitches on the underside.
Diagonal Basting/Tacking Stitch: Used to hold facings, interfacings, or lining to the main fabric, often seen as slanting stitches on the right side.
Tailor’s Tacks: Used for transferring pattern markings from pattern pieces to fabric, leaving loops of thread that are cut to mark the points.

Permanent Stitches

Permanent stitches are strong, durable stitches designed to remain in the garment. They are used for construction, finishing, and decorative purposes.

The following are examples of permanent stitches:

Running Stitch: A simple, small, and even stitch used for seaming, gathering, tucking, and mending.
Backstitch: A strong stitch that resembles machine stitching on the right side, used for seams that require strength and durability.
Hemming Stitch: A slanting stitch used to secure the folded edge of a hem to the main fabric, making it almost invisible on the right side.
Overcasting Stitch: A loop stitch used to finish raw edges of fabric to prevent fraying.
Buttonhole Stitch: A strong, closely worked stitch used to reinforce and finish buttonholes and other openings.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils, reviews the previous lesson briefly, and then introduces the new topic, “Basic Stitches,” by asking pupils if they have ever sewn anything by hand and what tools they used.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and listen attentively.
Learning Point: Pupils are prepared for the new lesson and connect it to their prior knowledge.

Step 2: Definition of Basic Stitches

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines basic stitches as fundamental hand-sewing techniques and explains their overall importance in garment making. The teacher also introduces the two main types: temporary and permanent stitches.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, take notes, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the definition and general types of basic stitches.

Step 3: Types of Basic Stitches and their Uses

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Elaboration/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher further explains the two main types of stitches (temporary and permanent) and discusses the general uses of basic stitches, using the stitch samples album to illustrate.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the stitch samples, listen to the explanations, and identify the different types and uses.
Learning Point: Pupils can distinguish between temporary and permanent stitches and know their general applications.

Step 4: Temporary Stitches

Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Practical Application
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what temporary stitches are and demonstrates how to make at least two types, such as even basting and tailor’s tacks, using fabric scraps, needle, and thread. The teacher allows pupils to practice.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully, ask questions, and practice making the temporary stitches on their fabric scraps.
Learning Point: Pupils understand temporary stitches and can make them.

Step 5: Permanent Stitches

Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what permanent stitches are and demonstrates how to make at least two types, such as running stitch and backstitch, using the provided materials. The teacher highlights their durability and purpose.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils watch the demonstration, note the differences from temporary stitches, and ask questions.
Learning Point: Pupils understand permanent stitches and their applications.

Step 6: Further Discussion on Uses and Applications

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Reinforcement
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher leads a discussion on the specific uses of each temporary and permanent stitch demonstrated, encouraging pupils to think of real-life scenarios where each stitch would be appropriate.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute to the discussion, sharing ideas and examples of stitch uses.
Learning Point: Pupils deepen their understanding of when and where to apply different stitches.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher evaluates the learning by asking the following questions:

Define basic stitches.
List three types of temporary stitches.
State two uses of permanent stitches.
Demonstrate how to make an even basting stitch.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summary/Assignment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, reiterating the importance of basic stitches. The teacher then assigns homework: “Practice making all the temporary stitches discussed and bring samples to the next class.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and copy down the homework.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are given tasks to reinforce skills.

Lesson Keywords

Stitches – Loops of thread used to join fabric or decorate.
Temporary Stitches – Loose, easily removable stitches for holding fabric temporarily.
Permanent Stitches – Strong, durable stitches designed to remain in the garment.
Basting/Tacking – Another term for temporary stitches.
Running Stitch – A simple, small, and even permanent stitch.
Backstitch – A strong permanent stitch resembling machine stitching.
Hemming Stitch – A permanent stitch used to secure the folded edge of a hem.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher can challenge them to identify additional types of stitches or design a simple pattern using different stitches. For pupils who require more support, the teacher will provide one-on-one guidance during practical sessions and provide simplified diagrams or pre-marked fabric pieces to aid their practice. Peer-to-peer learning will be encouraged during the practical demonstration steps.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure that all pupils have access to the necessary materials (needle, thread, fabric scraps) for the practical sessions. Emphasise safety when handling needles. Provide clear, step-by-step demonstrations and circulate among pupils to offer individual assistance and correct techniques. Encourage pupils to practice regularly to develop proficiency in stitch making.