Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1 / SSS 1)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 8
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Garment Making
Curriculum Theme: Trade
Previous Lesson: Methods Of Obtaining Patterns.
Topic: FLAT PATTERNS
Subject Matter: Drafted patterns, Commercial patterns, Pattern markings, Printed and perforated symbols

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain:

Define flat patterns.
Distinguish between drafted and commercial patterns.
Identify common pattern markings and their purposes.
Explain the use of printed and perforated symbols on patterns.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the importance of accurate pattern markings for successful garment construction.
Value the precision required in interpreting pattern symbols.

Psychomotor Domain:

Interpret various pattern markings on a given pattern piece.
Apply knowledge of symbols when using a pattern.

Participate actively in class discussions about pattern types and markings.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Home Economics.
Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools.
Garment Making for Senior Secondary Schools, Book 1.
https://www.education.gov.ng/curriculum/
https://www.schofwork.com/garment-making-sss1-sss2-sss3/

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Pattern charts showing different markings.
Examples of drafted patterns.
Examples of commercial patterns (e.g., from a pattern book).
Fabric samples.
Measuring tape, scissors, pencils, rulers.

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding flat patterns and their markings is important because it forms the foundation for accurate garment construction. This knowledge enables pupils to correctly cut fabric and assemble garments, leading to well-fitting and professionally finished products.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils have basic knowledge of sewing tools, different fabric types, and simple measurements.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

FLAT PATTERNS

Definition of Flat Patterns

Flat patterns are two-dimensional paper representations of garment pieces, created from body measurements or standard sizes, used as templates for cutting fabric.

Types of Flat Patterns

There are generally two main types of flat patterns:

Drafted patterns
Commercial patterns

Drafted Patterns

Drafted patterns are patterns created from scratch using individual body measurements or standard measurement charts. They are drawn directly onto paper using rulers, curves, and other drafting tools.

The following are advantages of drafted patterns:

They provide a custom fit for specific body shapes.
They are cost-effective as no purchase is required.
They allow for creative design modifications.

The following are disadvantages of drafted patterns:

They are time-consuming to create.
They require skill and precision in measuring and drafting.

Commercial Patterns

Commercial patterns are pre-designed, pre-printed patterns sold by companies, usually available in standard sizes and often include detailed instructions for garment construction.

The following are advantages of commercial patterns:

They save time as they are ready to use.
They offer professional designs and styles.
They come with clear, step-by-step sewing instructions.

The following are disadvantages of commercial patterns:

They may require alterations to achieve a perfect fit.
They involve a purchase cost.

Pattern Markings

Pattern markings are symbols, lines, and texts printed or perforated on a pattern piece that provide instructions for cutting, sewing, and assembling the garment correctly.

The following are common pattern markings and their purposes:

Grainline: A straight line with arrows at both ends, indicating how the pattern piece should be aligned with the fabric grain for proper drape and fit.
Place on Fold: A bracketed line indicating that the pattern edge should be placed along a folded edge of the fabric, often used for symmetrical pieces like bodices or skirts.
Notches: Small V-shaped, U-shaped, or T-shaped markings along the cutting line, used to match corresponding pattern pieces accurately during assembly.
Darts: Triangular shapes used to shape the fabric to the body’s curves, marked with lines to indicate folding and stitching.
Buttonholes/Buttons: Markings indicating the precise placement and size of buttonholes and buttons.
Seam Allowance: The distance between the cutting line and the stitching line, usually a standard width (e.g., 1.5 cm), for joining fabric pieces.
Lengthen/Shorten Lines: Parallel lines indicating where to adjust the pattern length without distorting its shape.
Drill Holes: Small circles or dots indicating specific points for details like pocket placement, dart ends, or pleat positions.

Printed and Perforated Symbols

Printed symbols are visible lines, words, and shapes directly printed on the pattern paper, such as grainlines, cutting lines, stitching lines, and text instructions.

Perforated symbols are small holes punched into the pattern paper, usually indicating specific points or lines that may need to be transferred to the fabric, such as dart ends, pocket placements, or specific fitting points.

The purpose of both printed and perforated symbols is to guide the user in accurate cutting, matching, and construction of the garment, ensuring proper fit and professional finish.

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, “Flat Patterns,” by asking pupils if they have ever seen paper templates used for cutting fabric for clothes.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to the teacher’s questions and listen attentively to the introduction.
Learning Point: Pupils are prepared for the new lesson and connect it to prior knowledge.

Step 2: Explanation of Flat Patterns and Types

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Illustration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines flat patterns and introduces the two main types: drafted and commercial patterns. The teacher uses pattern charts and actual pattern examples to illustrate.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, observe the pattern examples, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the definition and basic types of flat patterns.

Step 3: Discussion on Drafted Patterns

Time: 6 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Analysis
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains what drafted patterns are, their characteristics, and discusses their advantages and disadvantages with the pupils. The teacher displays a drafted pattern example.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute to the discussion by sharing their understanding and noting the key points.
Learning Point: Pupils learn the features, benefits, and drawbacks of drafted patterns.

Step 4: Discussion on Commercial Patterns

Time: 6 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Comparison
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains commercial patterns, their characteristics, and discusses their advantages and disadvantages, comparing them to drafted patterns. The teacher displays a commercial pattern example.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils participate in the comparison and note the unique aspects of commercial patterns.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the features, benefits, and drawbacks of commercial patterns.

Step 5: Introduction to Pattern Markings

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Identification
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines pattern markings and demonstrates various common markings (e.g., grainline, notches, darts, “place on fold,” seam allowance) using pattern charts and actual patterns. The teacher explains the purpose of each marking.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the markings, identify them on the examples, and take notes.
Learning Point: Pupils identify and understand the purpose of essential pattern markings.

Step 6: Explanation of Printed and Perforated Symbols

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Clarification/Differentiation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the difference between printed and perforated symbols and their specific uses on patterns, showing examples where possible.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, differentiate between the symbols, and understand their functions.
Learning Point: Pupils can distinguish between and explain the functions of printed and perforated symbols.

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 flat patterns.
State two differences between drafted and commercial patterns.
Mention three common pattern markings and explain their purpose.
What is the main function of perforated symbols on a pattern?

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarisation/Assignment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of understanding patterns and their markings for successful garment construction. The teacher assigns homework: “Draw and label five common pattern markings.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and note down the homework.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and prepare for further practice.

Lesson Keywords

Flat pattern – A two-dimensional paper template used for cutting fabric pieces for a garment.
Drafted pattern – A pattern created from individual body measurements or standard charts.
Commercial pattern – A pre-designed, pre-printed pattern sold by companies, usually in standard sizes.
Pattern markings – Symbols and lines on a pattern providing instructions for cutting, sewing, and assembly.
Grainline – A pattern marking indicating how the pattern should be aligned with the fabric grain.
Notches – Small marks used to match corresponding pattern pieces.
Seam allowance – The area between the cutting line and the stitching line on a pattern.
Perforated symbols – Small holes punched into a pattern to indicate specific points or lines.

Differentiation

For visual learners, ample use of pattern charts and actual pattern examples will be provided. Kinesthetic learners will benefit from handling and examining the different pattern types and markings. Pupils who grasp concepts quickly will be challenged to explain the implications of incorrect pattern marking interpretation. Slower learners will receive additional explanations and one-on-one guidance to ensure comprehension of basic pattern identification and marking interpretation.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Encourage pupils to bring old commercial patterns or drafted patterns from home to make the lesson more practical and relatable. Emphasize the real-world application of accurate pattern interpretation in garment making. Allow pupils to ask questions frequently to ensure all concepts are clear.