Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1 / SSS 1)
Term: Second Term
Week: 7
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Garment Making
Curriculum Theme: Trade
Previous Lesson: Basic Stitches: Practical Stitching.
Topic: SEAMS
Subject Matter: Types of seams, Uses of seams, Selection points, Open seam working

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain:

Define a seam.
State at least three types of seams.
Mention two uses of seams in garment making.
Explain two factors to consider when selecting a seam.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the importance of selecting the correct seam for different fabrics and garment areas.
Value neatness and precision in seam construction.

Psychomotor Domain:

Identify different seam types from provided samples.
Construct a basic open seam.

Collaborate with peers to discuss different seam applications.
Share materials and tools responsibly during practical activities.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Home Economics (Senior Secondary 1-3).
Lagos State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary School Garment Making.
Garment Making for Senior Secondary Schools by A. O. Olatunji.
https://www.textilefashionstudy.com/types-of-seams-in-garment-making/
https://sewing.com/types-of-seams/

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Various garment seam samples (e.g., open seam, French seam, flat fell seam).
Sewing machine.
Fabric scraps.
Needles, threads, pins, scissors.
Chalkboard/Whiteboard and markers.

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand how different pieces of fabric are joined together to form garments. Knowing about seams enables pupils to make informed choices for garment construction, leading to durable and well-finished clothing items that are appealing and functional.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

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

Lesson Content/Board Summary

SEAMS

Definition of a Seam

A seam is a line of stitching that joins two or more pieces of fabric together in garment construction. Seams are essential for shaping and assembling garments.

Types of Seams

There are several types of seams used in garment making. The following are common types:

Open Seam (Plain Seam): This is the most common and simplest seam. The raw edges are pressed open and finished separately.
French Seam: A strong, neat seam that encloses the raw edges within the seam itself, making it suitable for sheer fabrics.
Flat Fell Seam: A very strong and durable seam where the raw edges are enclosed, creating a flat, smooth finish on both sides. Often used on sportswear and workwear.
Lapped Seam: One fabric edge overlaps another, and a line of stitching secures them. Used for joining non-fraying materials or for decorative purposes.
Piped Seam: A decorative seam where a cord covered with fabric (piping) is inserted between the two fabric layers being joined.

Uses of Seams

Seams are used for various purposes in garment construction. The following are uses of seams:

To join pieces of fabric together.
To give shape and form to a garment.
To add strength and durability to a garment.
To provide decorative effects on a garment.
To create openings for fasteners like zippers and buttons.

Factors for Selecting Seams

The choice of seam depends on several factors. The following are important factors to consider:

Fabric Type: Heavy fabrics need strong seams, while sheer fabrics may require seams that enclose raw edges.
Location of Seam: Seams in stress areas (e.g., armholes, crotch) need to be stronger than those in less stressed areas.
Garment Design: Some designs may require decorative seams or seams that lie flat.
Durability Required: Garments that will undergo a lot of wear and tear need very strong seams.
Ease of Care: Some seams are easier to iron and maintain than others.

Working an Open Seam

An open seam is a basic seam where the raw edges are pressed open. The following are steps to work an open seam:

Place the two fabric pieces right sides together, matching raw edges.
Pin the edges together to hold them in place.
Stitch along the seam line (usually 1.5 cm or 5/8 inch from the raw edge).
Trim the seam allowance if necessary to an even width.
Press the seam open, flattening the seam allowances on opposite sides of the stitching line.
Finish the raw edges of each seam allowance separately (e.g., with zigzag stitch, overlocking, or turning under).

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 and reviews the previous lesson briefly. The teacher then asks pupils how different parts of their clothes are joined together. This leads to the introduction of “Seams” as the topic for the day.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and listen attentively to the introduction of the new topic.
Learning Point: Pupils recall previous knowledge and are prepared for the new lesson.

Step 2: Definition of a Seam

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines a seam as a line of stitching that joins two or more pieces of fabric. The teacher writes the definition on the board.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen, write down the definition, and ask questions for clarification.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the basic concept of a seam.

Step 3: Types and Uses of Seams

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher displays various garment seam samples (open seam, French seam, flat fell seam, etc.) and explains each type, highlighting their characteristics and common uses. The teacher asks pupils to identify the different seams.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the samples, identify the seams, listen to explanations, and take notes on the types and uses of seams.
Learning Point: Pupils can identify and differentiate various seam types and understand their applications.

Step 4: Factors for Selecting Seams

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher discusses with pupils the factors that influence the selection of a particular seam, such as fabric type, garment design, and durability. The teacher emphasizes the importance of choosing the right seam.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute to the discussion, ask questions, and note down the selection factors.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the criteria for choosing appropriate seams.

Step 5: Demonstration of Open Seam Working

Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Practical
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates practically how to construct an open seam using fabric scraps, a sewing machine, and other necessary tools. The teacher explains each step clearly as it is performed.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully, asking questions about the process.
Learning Point: Pupils learn the practical steps involved in constructing an open seam.

Step 6: Supervised Identification and Discussion

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher provides pupils with fabric scraps with partially constructed open seams and guides them to identify the stages and discuss the finishing options for the raw edges.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils examine the samples, identify the open seam, and discuss the finishing steps under the teacher’s guidance.
Learning Point: Pupils reinforce their understanding of open seam construction through practical observation and discussion.

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

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

What is a seam?
Mention three types of seams.
State two uses of seams in garment making.
List two factors to consider when selecting a seam.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization/Assignment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson, reiterating the definition, types, uses, selection points, and open seam construction. The teacher gives an assignment: “Practice constructing an open seam on a piece of fabric and bring it to the next class.”
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and copy down the assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their learning and prepare for future practice.

Lesson Keywords

Seam – A line of stitching that joins two or more pieces of fabric together.
Open seam – A basic seam where the raw edges are pressed open and finished separately.
French seam – A strong seam that encloses raw edges within the seam.
Flat fell seam – A very strong, flat seam with enclosed raw edges, suitable for durable garments.
Lapped seam – A seam where one fabric edge overlaps another and is stitched down.
Piping – A decorative cord covered with fabric, often inserted into seams.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher can encourage them to research other types of seams not covered in detail. For pupils who need more support, the teacher will provide individualized guidance during the practical demonstration and identification activities.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure all necessary materials are prepared before the lesson. Provide clear and concise demonstrations. Encourage active participation from all pupils and provide constructive feedback during practical activities.