Class: Senior Secondary School 1 (SS1, SS 1, SSS1, SSS 1)
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 3
Age: 15 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Wood Work
Curriculum Theme: Vocational Studies
Previous Lesson: Correct Use of Special Purpose Hand Tools.
Topic: SELECTION AND PROPER USE OF SPECIAL HAND TOOLS
Subject Matter: Selection of special hand tools, proper use of coping saw, proper use of shoulder plane

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain:

Define special hand tools.
Identify at least two special hand tools.
State the purpose of a coping saw and a shoulder plane.

Affective Domain:

Appreciate the importance of selecting the correct tool for a specific task.
Observe safety precautions when using special hand tools.

Psychomotor Domain:

Demonstrate the proper use of a coping saw to cut curves.
Demonstrate the proper use of a shoulder plane to trim tenon shoulders.

Work cooperatively with peers during practical demonstrations.
Share tools responsibly in the workshop.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

9 Years Basic Education Curriculum for Senior Secondary Schools.
State Unified Scheme of Work for Senior Secondary Schools (Wood Work).
Akinwande, O.A. (2018). Woodwork for Senior Secondary Schools 1-3. Lagos: Learnwell Publishers.

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

Actual coping saw
Actual shoulder plane
Examples of other special hand tools (e.g., router plane, spokeshave)
Wood workpiece
Safety goggles
Chalkboard/whiteboard and markers

Rationale for the Lesson

This lesson helps pupils understand how to choose and use specific hand tools for more complex woodworking tasks. This knowledge is important for producing quality work and ensuring safety in the workshop, which are valuable skills for future careers or personal projects.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Pupils should have basic knowledge of general hand tools, their care, and fundamental workshop safety rules.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

SELECTION AND PROPER USE OF SPECIAL HAND TOOLS

1. Definition of Special Hand Tools

Special hand tools are woodworking tools designed for specific, often intricate, tasks that general-purpose tools cannot perform efficiently or accurately. They are used for detailed work such as cutting curves, shaping edges, or trimming joints.

2. Selection of Special Hand Tools

The following factors should be considered when selecting special hand tools:

Type of work: Choose a tool specifically designed for the task (e.g., coping saw for curves, shoulder plane for tenons).
Material: Ensure the tool is suitable for the type and hardness of the wood being worked on.
Condition of the tool: Check that the tool is sharp, clean, and in good working order.
Size and ergonomics: Select a tool that is comfortable to hold and manipulate for the user.
Safety features: Ensure any protective guards or handles are intact and functional.

3. Proper Use of Coping Saw

A coping saw is a hand saw with a thin, narrow blade held under tension in a frame, used for cutting intricate curves, scrollwork, and internal cuts in wood.

The steps for using a coping saw correctly are:

Select the appropriate blade for the thickness and type of wood.
Insert the blade into the frame with the teeth pointing towards the handle.
Adjust the blade tension until it is firm but not overly tight.
Secure the workpiece firmly in a vice or clamp.
Start the cut by drawing the saw backwards to create a shallow groove.
Apply gentle, even pressure on the forward stroke, guiding the blade along the desired line.
Rotate the frame as needed to follow curves, allowing the blade to do the cutting.
Avoid forcing the blade, as this can cause it to break or bind.

Safety precautions for using a coping saw include:

Wear safety goggles to protect eyes from sawdust.
Keep fingers away from the blade path.
Ensure the workpiece is stable and cannot move during cutting.

4. Proper Use of Shoulder Plane

A shoulder plane is a specialized hand plane designed for trimming the shoulders of tenons and rebates, ensuring they are perfectly square and fit accurately.

The steps for using a shoulder plane correctly are:

Ensure the blade is sharp and correctly set with a minimal projection.
Secure the workpiece firmly, exposing the shoulder of the tenon or rebate.
Hold the plane firmly with both hands, placing the sole flat on the workpiece.
Start planing from one end of the shoulder, applying even pressure.
Push the plane across the shoulder, taking thin shavings.
Work progressively across the entire width of the shoulder until the desired fit is achieved.
Check for squareness and accuracy frequently using a try square.

Safety precautions for using a shoulder plane include:

Always push the plane away from the body.
Keep hands clear of the blade’s path.
Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped to prevent movement.

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 to name some general hand tools they know and their uses. The teacher introduces the topic by explaining that while general tools are useful, some tasks require specialized tools for accuracy and efficiency.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond to questions and listen attentively. They recall previously learned information.
Learning Point: Pupils are mentally prepared for the new lesson and connect it to prior knowledge.

Step 2: Introduction of Special Hand Tools

Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation/Definition
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher defines special hand tools, explaining their purpose in woodworking. The teacher displays the coping saw and shoulder plane, asking pupils if they have seen them before or know their names.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the definition and observe the tools. They may attempt to identify the tools or guess their uses.
Learning Point: Pupils understand what special hand tools are and are introduced to specific examples.

Step 3: Selection of Special Hand Tools

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion/Elaboration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher leads a discussion on the factors to consider when selecting a special hand tool for a task, guiding pupils to think about the type of work, material, and tool condition. The teacher emphasizes safety.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute to the discussion, suggesting factors and asking questions.
Learning Point: Pupils learn the criteria for selecting the appropriate special hand tool.

Step 4: Demonstration of Coping Saw Use

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modeling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the proper way to set up and use a coping saw to cut curves on a piece of wood. The teacher explains each step, highlighting safety precautions and common errors to avoid.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration carefully, paying attention to the teacher’s technique and instructions.
Learning Point: Pupils visually learn the correct procedure for using a coping saw.

Step 5: Practical Session: Coping Saw

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Guided Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher provides small wood pieces and coping saws. Pupils are guided to practice using the coping saw under close supervision. The teacher offers immediate feedback and correction.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils attempt to use the coping saw to cut curves, applying the techniques demonstrated by the teacher.
Learning Point: Pupils develop practical skills in using a coping saw.

Step 6: Demonstration of Shoulder Plane Use

Time: 7 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Modeling
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates the proper use of a shoulder plane to trim the shoulder of a tenon or rebate. The teacher explains the purpose of the tool and the correct technique for achieving a square and accurate cut, emphasizing safety.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration, noting the posture, grip, and movement required for effective use.
Learning Point: Pupils understand the function and correct application of a shoulder plane.

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 special hand tools.
Mention two factors to consider when selecting a special hand tool.
State the primary use of a coping saw.
List two safety precautions to observe when using a shoulder plane.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Pupils demonstrate understanding of the lesson.

Step 8: Conclusion

Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Summarization
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key learning points of the lesson, reiterating the importance of selecting the right tool and using it safely and correctly. The teacher assigns homework: research other special hand tools and their uses.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and note down the homework assignment.
Learning Point: Pupils consolidate their understanding of the lesson and are given a task to extend their learning.

Lesson Keywords

Coping saw – A hand saw with a thin, narrow blade used for cutting intricate curves and scrollwork in wood.
Shoulder plane – A specialized hand plane used for trimming the shoulders of tenons and rebates to ensure accuracy.
Special hand tools – Tools designed for specific, often detailed, woodworking tasks that general tools cannot perform efficiently.

Differentiation

For pupils who grasp concepts quickly, the teacher can challenge them to identify additional special hand tools and their applications. For those needing extra support, the teacher will provide more one-on-one guidance during practical sessions and allow them additional time for practice. Peer-to-peer learning will be encouraged, where faster learners can assist their classmates under teacher supervision.

Note for teachers using this lesson plan

Ensure all tools are in good working condition and blades are sharp before the lesson. Emphasize safety throughout the practical sessions. Encourage pupils to ask questions and provide ample opportunity for hands-on practice. Be prepared to offer individual assistance and feedback during the practical activities.