Class: Primary One
Term: First Term
Subject: Basic Science and Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Technology
Previous Lesson: Simple Machines On The Farm
Topic: Safety When Using Simple Machines at Home
Content/Learning Area: Safety Measures When Using Simple Machines at Home
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
Cognitive Domain:
- Explain the meaning of safety.
- State the importance of safety.
- Describe how to use simple machines safely at home.
Psychomotor Domain:
- Demonstrate safe practices when using simple machines.
Affective Domain:
- Show appreciation for safety measures at home.
Social Domain:
- Work with others to maintain safety when using simple machines.
Reference Materials
- 9-Year Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Centre Scheme of Work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Online Resources from What are the safety precautions in using simple machines? (https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-safety-precautions-in-using-simple-machines)
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
- Whiteboard or chart
- Pictures showing safe and unsafe practices
- Real-life tools (broom, scissors, knife, etc.)
- Samples of protective gear (e.g., gloves, apron)
- Flashcards of safety signs
Rationale for the Lesson
Simple machines help us with daily tasks at home, but they can also cause harm when used carelessly. Teaching pupils about safety ensures they understand how to handle simple machines responsibly, protecting themselves and others from accidents or injuries.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils already know the meaning and examples of simple machines found at home.
Lesson Content
Meaning of Safety
Safety means being careful and staying away from harm or injury when using tools or doing any activity.
Importance of Safety
Safety is important because it:
- Prevents accidents and injuries.
- Keeps us healthy and protected.
- Helps us complete work properly.
- Makes the home a safe and happy place.
- Encourages responsibility and care for others.
How to Use Simple Machines Safely at Home
When using simple machines at home, follow these rules to stay safe:
- Use simple machines carefully – avoid playing with sharp tools.
- Ask for adult help or supervision when using tools like knives or scissors.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves or aprons when necessary.
- Keep the work area clean to prevent slipping or falling.
- Check tools before use to make sure they are not broken or loose.
- Do not run or play while holding sharp tools.
- Store tools properly after use to avoid accidents.
- Follow instructions given by adults on how to use machines safely.
Examples of Safe and Unsafe Practices
| Safe Practice | Unsafe Practice |
|---|---|
| Using scissors only when seated | Running around with scissors |
| Wearing gloves while using a hoe | Digging barefoot |
| Asking an adult to open a tin | Using sharp tools alone |
| Keeping tools after use | Leaving tools lying on the floor |
Teaching Methods
Discussion, Question and Answer, Demonstration, Group Work
Instructional Procedures
Step 1: Introduction (Set Induction)
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity:
- Ask pupils: “Have you ever used scissors or a broom at home?”
- “Did you use them carefully or carelessly?”
- Introduce the topic: Safety When Using Simple Machines at Home.
Pupils’ Activity: - Share short experiences and listen attentively.
Step 2: Explanation of Key Concepts
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Clarifying, Explaining
Teacher’s Activity:
- Explain the meaning of safety.
- Discuss why safety is important when using simple machines.
Pupils’ Activity: - Listen attentively and contribute answers.
Step 3: Guided Practice
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstrating, Guiding
Teacher’s Activity:
- Show pictures or real tools (e.g., scissors, broom, knife).
- Demonstrate the correct and safe way to use each.
- Display protective gear and explain their uses.
Pupils’ Activity: - Observe and demonstrate safe handling with guidance.
Step 4: Individual Practice
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Monitoring, Assessing
Teacher’s Activity:
- Ask pupils to act out how to use one simple machine safely.
Pupils’ Activity: - Role-play safe use of simple machines.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guiding, Summarizing
Teacher’s Activity:
- Help pupils write short notes on safety and safe use of simple machines.
Pupils’ Activity: - Copy notes correctly.
Step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity:
Ask pupils the following questions:
- What is safety?
- Why is safety important?
- Mention two ways to use simple machines safely.
- What can happen if we are careless when using simple machines?
Pupils’ Activity:
- Answer questions orally.
Step 7: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarizing, Encouraging
Teacher’s Activity:
- Summarize key points and praise pupils for their participation.
- Remind them to always be careful at home.
Pupils’ Activity: - Repeat the safety rules after the teacher.
Lesson Keywords
- Safety: Being careful to avoid harm.
- Simple Machine: A tool that makes work easier.
- Protective Gear: Items that keep us safe (e.g., gloves, apron).
- Supervision: Guidance from an adult.
- Accident: An unexpected event that causes harm.
Lesson Evaluation
- What is safety?
- State two reasons why safety is important.
- List two safety rules for using simple machines at home.
- Mention two simple machines found at home.
- Why should we not play with simple machines?
Assignment/Homework
- List three simple machines found at home and write one safety rule for each.
- Draw a picture of yourself using one simple machine safely.
- Ask your parents to tell you one safety rule they follow when using tools at home.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide one-on-one support, use clear, simple explanations, and repeat key ideas with demonstrations.
- For advanced learners: Ask them to identify unsafe practices at home and suggest how to correct them.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use pictures, storytelling, songs, and role-play to illustrate safety rules.
Note for Teachers
Emphasize practical safety behavior, not just definitions.
Encourage pupils to give real examples from their homes.
Supervise closely during demonstrations, especially when showing tools.
Use familiar household items to make the topic relatable and engaging.

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