Rapid Prototyping · SHS1 Engineering

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.3.2.LI.1 - Describe the fundamental principles behind 3D printing, casting, PCB production and laser cutters and the specific use case applications.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define rapid prototyping and explain its role in the product design cycle.
Describe the operating principle of at least three RP technologies: 3D printing, casting, PCB production and laser cutting.
Match each RP technology to its most appropriate use case application with justification.
Compare the strengths and weaknesses of the four RP technologies when selecting one for a given prototyping task (Level 2 conceptual understanding).
Justify a technology choice for a real-world prototyping scenario, using evidence from observed demonstrations or videos (Level 3 strategic reasoning).

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Curriculum details

Strand: Systems Design and Prototyping (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Rapid Prototyping (3.2)
Content standard: 1.3.2.CS.1 - Use various Rapid Prototyping (RP) Technologies available and their specific applications. 1.3.2.LO.1 Use major rapid prototyping technologies such as 3D printing, casting, PCB production and laser cutting.
Indicator: 1.3.2.LI.1 - Describe the fundamental principles behind 3D printing, casting, PCB production and laser cutters and the specific use case applications.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 12 (Week 32 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. 52

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Initiating Talk for Learning: The facilitator initiates a discussion by introducing the concept of rapid prototyping, its role in product design, the various rapid prototyping (RP) technologies and their use cases. The objective is to ignite and sustain the interest of learners to participate in open discussion.
Digital Learning: Watch videos on 3D printing, casting, PCB production and laser cutting technology employed in RP. The videos will indicate the operating principles, use cases and strengths and weaknesses of the respective RPs. Learners will also visit RP workshops to have firsthand experience of 3D printing machines producing models as an example of RP technology.
Collaborative Learning: Work in groups and discuss learner observations on the RP technologies. Groups should make presentations on their observations, critique and add to others' presentations.

Assessment (1.3.2.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.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Integrated 3D printing workshop
- Video documentaries
- Audio-visual equipment and laptops with MS Office installed