SHS1 Manufacturing Engineering · Semester 1, Week 5

Properties of Materials

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.1.2.LI.1 - Explain thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal expansion, melting point and thermal diffusivity as thermal properties of materials.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

  1. Define each of the five thermal properties (thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal expansion, melting point, and thermal diffusivity) in their own words.
  2. Demonstrate through a laboratory experiment how heat affects the behaviour of a metal iron and water.
  3. Explain the practical difference between thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity using everyday examples.
  4. Predict which material will heat up or cool down faster based on its thermal properties.
  5. Relate thermal properties to the selection of materials for common Ghanaian applications such as cooking utensils, building materials, and electronics.

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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.1 - Explain thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal expansion, melting point and thermal diffusivity as thermal properties of materials.
Suggested placement
Semester 1, Week 5 (Week 5 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)

Experiential Learning: In mixed-ability groups, learners heat a metal iron and boil water in the laboratory, observe the changes in the behaviour of the metal iron and water when heat is passed through them and present their findings to the class. Encourage them to accept criticisms and contributions made by others.
Talk for Learning: Based on the observations made in the heating of the metal iron and water, discuss with learners the thermal properties of materials such as thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal expansion, melting point and thermal diffusivity. Use concept maps to structure contributions.
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Water * Heat source
- * Textbook * Electrical conductivity test equipment
- * Audio-visuals * Projectors
Assessment (1.1.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.