Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1, SS 1, SSS1, SSS 1)
Term: Second Term
Week: 3
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Clothing and Textiles
Curriculum Theme: Clothing and Textiles
Previous Lesson: Locally Made Fabrics: Types, Communities and Comparisons.
Topic: DYEING AND PRINTING
Subject Matter: types of dyeing and printing, tie and dye technique, batik method, screen printing process, basic safety and materials for dyeing
Specific Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain:
- Define dyeing and printing.
- Identify different types of dyeing and printing.
- Explain the steps involved in tie and dye, batik, and screen printing.
Affective Domain:
- Appreciate the artistic value of dyed and printed fabrics.
- Show interest in creating their own dyed and printed designs.
- Comply with safety precautions during practical activities.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Demonstrate the tie and dye technique on a piece of fabric.
- Perform a basic batik method using wax resist.
- Execute a simple screen printing process.
Social Domain:
- Collaborate with peers when sharing materials during practical work.
- Discuss ideas for creating unique fabric designs.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Clothing and Textiles.
- State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools.
- Adamu, M. S. (2018). Clothing and Textiles for Senior Secondary Schools. Abuja: Universal Publishing Co.
Instructional Materials
The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:
- Fabric samples (cotton, plain white).
- Dyes (e.g., cold water dyes).
- Dyeing materials: rubber bands, strings, wax, small pots (for wax), brushes/sponges, buckets, stirring rods, salt, soda ash.
- Screen printing materials: screen, squeegee, stencil, fabric paint.
- Protective gear: aprons, gloves.
- Water source.
Rationale for the Lesson
This lesson helps pupils understand how fabrics can be artistically transformed using various dyeing and printing techniques. Learning these skills enables pupils to create unique designs, personalize their clothing, and potentially develop entrepreneurial skills in fabric decoration.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils should have a basic understanding of different types of fabrics and their properties from previous lessons.
Lesson Content/Board Summary
DYEING AND PRINTING
Definition of Dyeing and Printing
Dyeing is the process of applying colour to textiles materials such as fibres, yarns, and fabrics, usually in a solution containing a dye. The dye is absorbed into the material, resulting in a permanent colour change.
Printing is the process of applying colour in localized areas on a fabric to create specific patterns or designs. Unlike dyeing, printing applies colour to the surface of the fabric rather than immersing the entire material.
Types of Dyeing and Printing
The following are common types of dyeing and printing:
- Tie and Dye: A resist dyeing method where fabric is folded, twisted, pleated, or crumpled and bound with string or rubber bands before dyeing. The tied areas resist the dye, creating patterns.
- Batik: A resist dyeing technique using wax to prevent dye from penetrating parts of the fabric, creating intricate designs.
- Screen Printing: A stencil method of printmaking in which a design is imposed on a screen of polyester or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with an impermeable substance. Ink is forced through the mesh openings onto the fabric.
- Direct Printing: Colour paste is applied directly to the fabric.
- Discharge Printing: Removes colour from a dyed fabric to create a pattern.
- Resist Printing: A substance is applied to prevent dye from penetrating certain areas, similar to batik but often using a paste.
Tie and Dye Technique
The following are the basic steps for tie and dye:
- Prepare the fabric by washing and dampening it.
- Fold, twist, crumple, or pleat the fabric into desired patterns.
- Tie the folded/twisted areas tightly with string or rubber bands.
- Prepare the dye bath according to instructions (dye, water, salt, soda ash).
- Immerse the tied fabric into the dye bath and allow it to soak for the recommended time.
- Remove the fabric, rinse it until the water runs clear.
- Untie the fabric and spread it out to dry.
- Iron the fabric once dry to set the colour (if required by dye type).
Batik Method
The following are the basic steps for the batik method:
- Prepare the fabric by washing and drying it.
- Melt wax gently in a pot.
- Draw or trace a design onto the fabric.
- Apply melted wax to the areas of the fabric that are to remain undyed, using a brush or canting tool.
- Allow the wax to cool and harden.
- Prepare the dye bath.
- Immerse the waxed fabric into the dye bath.
- Remove the fabric and allow it to dry.
- Remove the wax by scraping, ironing between absorbent papers, or boiling in water.
- Rinse the fabric to remove any remaining dye or wax residue.
Screen Printing Process
The following are the basic steps for screen printing:
- Prepare the fabric and ensure it is flat and smooth.
- Prepare the screen with the desired stencil design.
- Position the fabric on a flat surface and place the screen firmly over it, ensuring proper alignment.
- Pour a line of fabric paint or ink across the top edge of the screen.
- Use a squeegee to pull the paint evenly across the screen, forcing it through the open areas of the stencil onto the fabric.
- Lift the screen carefully.
- Allow the printed fabric to dry completely.
- Heat-set the print according to paint instructions (e.g., ironing) to ensure permanence.
Basic Safety Precautions in Dyeing and Printing
The following are important safety precautions:
- Wear protective clothing such as aprons and gloves to prevent skin contact with dyes and chemicals.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dye fumes.
- Keep all dyeing and printing materials away from food and drinks.
- Follow dye manufacturer’s instructions carefully for mixing and use.
- Dispose of chemical waste properly, following environmental guidelines.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
Materials for Dyeing and Printing
The following are common materials used:
- Fabrics: Cotton, silk, rayon, linen (natural fibres are best for most dyes).
- Dyes: Reactive dyes, direct dyes, pigment dyes.
- Resist materials: Rubber bands, strings, wax.
- Chemicals: Salt (for dye uptake), soda ash (fixative for reactive dyes), urea (for dye dissolution).
- Tools: Buckets, stirring rods, brushes, squeegees, screens, canting tools.
- Protective gear: Gloves, aprons, masks.
Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques
Discussion, Lecture, Demonstration, Question and Answer, Visual Aids, Practical Activity
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Set Induction/Engaging Prior Knowledge
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the pupils and asks them to identify different colours and patterns on their clothes or fabrics around the classroom. The teacher then introduces the topic by explaining that these colours and patterns are often created through dyeing and printing.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and share their observations about colours and patterns on fabrics.
Learning Point: Pupils are introduced to the concept of dyeing and printing and relate it to everyday items.
Step 2: Explanation of Dyeing and Printing
Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines dyeing and printing, distinguishing between the two processes. The teacher writes the definitions on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively, take notes, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the basic definitions of dyeing and printing.
Step 3: Types of Dyeing and Printing
Time: 8 minutes
Teaching Skill: Listing/Categorization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher discusses various types of dyeing and printing, focusing on tie and dye, batik, and screen printing. The teacher briefly explains the principle behind each type and lists them on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, observe, and note the different types of dyeing and printing.
Learning Point: Pupils can identify and differentiate between various dyeing and printing techniques.
Step 4: Demonstration of Tie and Dye and Batik
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Practical Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the practical steps for tie and dye and batik techniques using prepared materials. The teacher highlights key stages such as folding, tying, waxing, and immersing in dye. Pupils are encouraged to observe closely.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully and ask questions about the steps.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the practical application of tie and dye and batik methods.
Step 5: Demonstration of Screen Printing
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Practical Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the basic process of screen printing, showing how to position the screen, apply paint, and use the squeegee. The teacher emphasizes safety during the process.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils watch the screen printing demonstration and note the steps.
Learning Point: Pupils learn the practical steps for screen printing.
Step 6: Safety Precautions and Materials
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Safety Instruction/Material Identification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher discusses the basic safety precautions that must be observed during dyeing and printing activities. The teacher also highlights the essential materials needed for these processes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and note down the safety rules and materials.
Learning Point: Pupils are aware of safety measures and necessary materials for dyeing and printing.
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 dyeing and printing.
- Mention three types of dyeing and printing techniques.
- State any three steps involved in the tie and dye technique.
- List two safety precautions to observe during dyeing activities.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.
Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.
Step 8: Conclusion
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarizing/Consolidation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, reiterating the definitions, types, and practical aspects of dyeing and printing. The teacher encourages pupils to practice these techniques at home or during practical sessions. Homework: Identify local fabrics in your community that are produced using dyeing or printing methods.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary, ask final questions, and note down the homework.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and are encouraged to apply the knowledge.
Lesson Keywords
- Dyeing – The process of applying colour to textile materials.
- Printing – The process of applying colour in localized areas on fabric to create patterns.
- Tie and Dye – A resist dyeing technique where fabric is tied before dyeing.
- Batik – A resist dyeing technique using wax to create patterns.
- Screen Printing – A stencil method where ink is forced through a mesh screen onto fabric.
- Dyes – Colouring agents used to impart colour to fabrics.
- Fabric – Textile material used for making clothes and other items.
Differentiation
For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher can challenge them to research more complex dyeing techniques or design their own unique patterns for the practical session. For pupils who require more support, the teacher will provide closer supervision during practical demonstrations and offer simplified instructions or pre-prepared materials to ensure participation and success.
Note for teachers using this lesson plan
Ensure all materials are prepared and organized before the lesson, especially for the practical demonstrations, to save time. Emphasize safety throughout the practical sessions. Encourage pupils to explore their creativity in designing patterns. If possible, allow pupils to engage in hands-on practice in subsequent practical lessons or as project work.

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