SHS1 Manufacturing Engineering · Semester 1 Week 6: Properties of Materials

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.2.LI.2 - Explain electrical conductivity, electrical resistivity, dielectric strength and temperature coefficient of resistance as electrical properties of materials.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define electrical conductivity and electrical resistivity and state the relationship between them for a given material.
Explain dielectric strength as the ability of an insulating material to withstand high voltage without breaking down.
Define temperature coefficient of resistance and explain how it affects the resistance of conductors and semiconductors as temperature changes.
Perform a simple experiment to test the electrical conductivity of water and hydrochloric acid, and present their findings clearly to peers.
Classify common materials (such as metals, plastics, wood, and salt solutions) as conductors, insulators, or semiconductors based on their electrical properties.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Materials for Manufacturing (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Properties of Materials (1.2)
Content standard: 1.1.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the physical properties of materials. 1.1.2.LO.1 Examine the physical and mechanical properties of materials.
Indicator: 1.1.2.LI.2 - Explain electrical conductivity, electrical resistivity, dielectric strength and temperature coefficient of resistance as electrical properties of materials.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 6 (Week 6 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 29

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Research-Based Learning: Learners read from the library or Internet or watch videos on the electrical properties of materials (e.g., electrical conductivity, electrical resistivity, dielectric strength and temperature coefficient of resistance) and share summaries in class.
Experiential Learning: In mixed-ability groups, learners perform electrical conductivity test for water and hydrochloric acid, measure the electrical properties of the water and hydrochloric acid and present their results to the class for feedback. Encourage groups to accept and tolerate feedback given by peers.
- Metal iron
- Laboratory
- Hydrochloric acid
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Water * Heat source
- * Textbook * Electrical conductivity test equipment
- * Audio-visuals * Projectors
Assessment (1.1.2.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.