Parts of Stairs, Functions and Sketches for SS 3

Class: SS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 9
Age: 16-17 years
Duration: 45 minutes
Subject: Carpentry and Joinery
Previous Lesson: Factors Determining the Location of Stairs
Topic: Parts of Stairs, Functions and Sketches
Subject Matter: Parts of Stairs, Functions and Sketches

Specific Objectives

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

Cognitive Domain

• Identify and name at least five main parts of a stair.
• Describe the function of various stair components.
• State at least three common types of stairs.

Psychomotor Domain

• Sketch accurately the basic parts of a stair.
• Sketch at least two common types of stairs.

Affective Domain

• Appreciate the importance of understanding stair components for safe and functional construction.

Reference Materials

The following resources were used in planning this lesson:

• 2025 Revised 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
• Relevant State Unified Scheme of Work
• A suitable Carpentry and Joinery textbook for SS 3
• The HeadTeacher Scheme of work

Instructional Materials

The teacher will teach this lesson with the aid of:

• Charts showing different parts of a stair
• Diagrams of various stair types
• A model of a stair (if available)
• Drawing instruments (rulers, pencils, drawing sheets)

Rationale for the Lesson

Understanding the parts and functions of stairs is fundamental for any carpentry student, especially in SS 3. This knowledge is crucial for designing, constructing, and repairing stairs effectively and safely. It also forms the basis for more advanced joinery projects and ensures adherence to building codes and standards.

Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge

Students should have basic knowledge of woodworking tools, safety precautions in the workshop, and fundamental drawing techniques.

Lesson Content/Board Summary

Parts of Stairs, Functions and Sketches

Parts of a Stair

A stair is a series of steps connecting different levels in a building. Key parts include:

1. Tread: The horizontal surface of a step on which a person walks.
2. Riser: The vertical part of a step, connecting one tread to the next.
3. Stringer (or Carriage): The inclined member that supports the treads and risers. There are typically two stringers: the outer stringer (exposed) and the inner stringer (against a wall).
4. Newel Post: A strong, vertical post at the top, bottom, or an intermediate landing of a stair, supporting the handrail.
5. Baluster: Vertical members supporting the handrail, usually spaced evenly between the newel posts.
6. Handrail: The rail grasped by hand for support when ascending or descending stairs. It is supported by balusters and newel posts.
7. Landing: A flat platform at the top, bottom, or at an intermediate point of a stair flight. It provides a resting place and changes direction.
8. Nosing: The projecting edge of a tread beyond the face of the riser below it.
9. Headroom: The vertical clearance measured from the top of the tread to the ceiling or obstruction above.
10. Going (or Run): The horizontal distance from the face of one riser to the face of the next riser.
11. Rise: The vertical distance from the top of one tread to the top of the next tread.

Functions of Stair Parts

1. Tread: Provides a safe and stable surface for walking.
2. Riser: Defines the height of each step and prevents objects from falling through.
3. Stringer: Carries the structural load of the treads, risers, and users, transferring it to the floor or landing.
4. Newel Post: Provides structural support for the handrail and balustrade, acting as a strong anchor.
5. Baluster: Prevents falls by creating a barrier between the tread and the open side of the stair, while also supporting the handrail.
6. Handrail: Offers support and balance to users, enhancing safety.
7. Landing: Breaks the continuous run of steps, provides a resting area, and allows for changes in direction.
8. Nosing: Increases the walking surface of the tread and provides a finished appearance.
9. Headroom: Ensures adequate vertical space for users to walk without hitting their heads.
10. Going: Determines the comfortable horizontal distance for each step.
11. Rise: Determines the comfortable vertical height for each step.

Common Types of Stairs

1. Straight Flight Stair: A stair that runs in a single straight line without any turns or landings.
2. Quarter Turn Stair: A stair that turns 90 degrees at a landing, often near the top or bottom.
3. Half Turn Stair (or Dog-legged Stair): A stair that turns 180 degrees at a landing, with two flights running in opposite directions and no space between the flights.
4. Open Newel Stair: Similar to a half-turn stair, but with an open well or space between the flights.
5. Spiral Stair: Steps radiating from a central newel post, forming a circular path.
6. Circular Stair: A stair with a continuous curve, but without a central newel post, typically having a larger radius than a spiral stair.

Sketches of Stair Parts and Types

Accurate sketches are essential for stair design and construction. They help in visualising the structure, identifying components, and planning dimensions. Students should practice sketching different parts and common stair types, clearly labelling each component.

Teaching Methods/Instructional Techniques

Discussion, Demonstration, Guided Practice, Question and Answer, Explanation, Observation, Practical Activity (sketching).

Instructional Procedures

Step 1: Introduction

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Recalling/Engaging

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher greets the students and asks them to recall different structures found in buildings. The teacher then introduces the topic of stairs as an important structural element in multi-storey buildings.

Pupils’ Activity: Students respond to questions about building structures and listen attentively to the introduction.

Learning Point: Introduction to stairs

Step 2: Identification of Stair Parts

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Demonstration/Identification

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher uses charts, diagrams, or a model to point out and name the various parts of a stair (tread, riser, stringer, newel post, baluster, handrail, landing, nosing, headroom, going, rise). The teacher ensures students can correctly identify each part.

Pupils’ Activity: Students observe the diagrams/model, listen to the teacher, and identify the parts as instructed.

Learning Point: Naming stair components

Step 3: Description of Stair Part Functions

Time: 7 minutes

Teaching Skill: Explanation/Discussion

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher explains the specific function of each identified stair part, discussing why each component is necessary for safety and structural integrity. The teacher encourages students to ask questions.

Pupils’ Activity: Students listen to the explanations, ask clarifying questions, and discuss the importance of each part.

Learning Point: Functions of stair parts

Step 4: Introduction to Common Stair Types

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Explanation/Classification

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher uses diagrams to introduce and briefly describe common types of stairs such as straight flight, quarter turn, half turn (dog-legged), open newel, spiral, and circular stairs.

Pupils’ Activity: Students observe the diagrams and listen to the descriptions of different stair types.

Learning Point: Types of stairs

Step 5: Guided Sketching of Stair Parts

Time: 8 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Drawing

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides students to sketch basic stair parts like a tread, riser, and a section of a stringer on their drawing sheets. The teacher moves around to provide individual assistance and correct errors.

Pupils’ Activity: Students practice sketching the individual stair parts under the teacher’s guidance.

Learning Point: Sketching stair components

Step 6: Guided Sketching of Stair Types

Time: 7 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Practice/Drawing

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides students to sketch a simple straight flight stair and one other common type of stair (e.g., quarter turn) on their drawing sheets, ensuring they label the main parts.

Pupils’ Activity: Students sketch the common stair types and label their parts.

Learning Point: Sketching stair types

Step 7: Evaluation/Review

Time: 5 minutes

Teaching Skill: Questioning/Assessment

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

1. Name five parts of a stair.
2. What is the function of a handrail?
3. Describe the difference between a tread and a riser.
4. Mention two common types of stairs.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer orally and in writing.

Learning Point: Assessment of understanding

Step 8: Note-Taking

Time: 4 minutes

Teaching Skill: Guided Writing

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils/students to copy the essential Board Summary notes on parts of stairs, their functions, and common types into their notebooks.

Pupils’ Activity: Pupils/students copy the notes carefully into their notebooks.

Learning Point: Recording lesson notes

Step 9: Conclusion

Time: 1 minute

Teaching Skill: Reinforcement

Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarises the lesson by reiterating the importance of understanding stair parts and their functions for safe and professional carpentry work. The teacher encourages continuous practice in sketching.

Pupils’ Activity: Students listen and reflect on the lesson.

Learning Point: Consolidation of knowledge

Continuous Assessment/Further Study

Type: Homework/Practice Exercise

Instruction: Answer the following questions and complete the sketching task.

1. List and explain the functions of any four parts of a stair not discussed in class today (e.g., stringer housing, curtail step).
2. Draw a detailed sketch of a “dog-legged” stair, clearly labelling all its major components.
3. Research and write a short paragraph on the safety regulations related to stair dimensions (rise and going) in Nigeria.

Lesson Keywords

• Stair – A series of steps connecting different levels.
• Tread – The horizontal surface of a step.
• Riser – The vertical part of a step.
• Stringer – The inclined support for treads and risers.
• Handrail – The rail grasped for support.
• Baluster – Vertical support for the handrail.
• Newel Post – Strong post supporting the handrail at ends or landings.
• Landing – A flat platform in a stair.
• Nosing – Projecting edge of a tread.

Differentiation

For weaker learners, provide pre-drawn outlines of stair parts for them to label or trace. Focus on identifying and naming the most common parts. For faster learners, challenge them to sketch more complex stair types or research specific building code requirements for stair dimensions and safety features.

Suggested Lesson Videos

For further visual understanding, search on YouTube for:
“parts of stairs carpentry SS3”
“types of stairs construction”

Teacher Guide for Using This Lesson Plan

Before the lesson, ensure you have clear visual aids such as large charts or diagrams of stair parts and types. A physical model of a stair, if available, would greatly enhance understanding. Emphasise the practical application of this knowledge in real-world carpentry. During the sketching activities, circulate among students to provide immediate feedback and correct misconceptions about proportions and details. Pay attention to safety aspects when discussing stair construction, even if not performing actual construction. Encourage students to think critically about how each part contributes to the overall stability and safety of a stair. Students should copy the Board Summary notes during Step 8, ensuring they have accurate records for future study.