SHS1 Applied Technology · Semester 1 Week 2: Introduction to Engine Technology

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.1.LI.2 - Explain the constructional and operational differences between petrol and diesel engines

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify the key constructional differences between a petrol (spark ignition/SI) engine and a diesel (compression ignition/CI) engine, including fuel system components and ignition mechanisms.
Explain the operational difference in how each engine type ignites its fuel-air mixture, using the terms “spark ignition” and “compression ignition” correctly.
Compare the compression ratios of petrol and diesel engines and state why they differ.
Distinguish between a petrol engine and a diesel engine by examining visible components such as the spark plug, injector, and fuel pump.
Justify the choice of a petrol or diesel engine for a given purpose, based on constructional and operational characteristics.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Automotive Technology (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Introduction to Engine Technology (1.1)
Content standard: 1.1.1.CS.1 - 1.1.1.CS.1 Demonstrate the knowledge and application of the working principles of engines 1.1.1.LO.1 Analyse and use relevant principles underlying engines to service, and repair spark ignition (SI) and compression ignition (CI) engines
Indicator: 1.1.1.LI.2 - Explain the constructional and operational differences between petrol and diesel engines
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 2 (Week 2 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.
Source document note: The official curriculum document has a fault in this entry, so the curriculum text above is transcribed exactly as printed:

content standard text - p.28: prints the learning-outcome code as "1.1.1L.O.1"
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 28

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Problem based Learning: Display a dismantled engine for the learners to identify the various components and their precise positions in the spark ignition (SI) and compression ignition (CI) engines.

Assessment (1.1.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Materials:
- Models of engines
- Petrol and diesel engines
- Charts/sketches
- Video/YouTube
- Real engines
- Local vehicle repair workshop
- Simulated activities
- Real objects
- Models