| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | Design and technology |
| What topic | maths |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Doesn't matter |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Maths in Design and Technology
Varied (suitable for mixed-ability classes)
Design and Technology
20 students
30 minutes
The lesson aligns with the UK National Curriculum requirements for Mathematics and Design & Technology.
| Step Number | Step Title | Length | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction | 5 min | Introduce the topic and explain the relevance of maths in design and technology. Set expectations for the lesson. |
| 2 | Distributing Printable Cards | 5 min | Hand out the printable cards to each student and explain how to fill them out during the lesson. |
| 3 | Group Activity | 10 min | Divide students into small groups. Each group works on a design challenge incorporating mathematical concepts. |
| 4 | Collecting or Random Checking | 5 min | Collect cards or randomly check students’ filled cards to assess understanding of the concepts covered. |
| 5 | Homework Assignment | 3 min | Assign homework related to the day's lesson. Explain its importance and how it reinforces learning. |
| 6 | Conclusion & Review | 2 min | Recap key points discussed in the lesson. Allow time for any questions before finishing. |
The lesson plan focuses on integrating maths within design and technology through group activities and individual accountability. The structure encourages both collaborative and independent learning while ensuring the national curriculum standards are met. Homework is designed to reinforce the lesson’s learning outcomes without requiring presentations, allowing all students to participate and benefit.
“Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re going to explore an exciting topic: the role of maths in design and technology. You might not realise it, but every time we design something—be it a building, a piece of furniture, or even an electronic device—mathematics is involved in the process. Our goal for today is to enhance your understanding of these mathematical concepts and see how they can be applied in real life.
We have an engaging activity planned where you’ll work in groups. I expect everyone to participate and collaborate. Are you ready to dive into the world of maths and design?”
“Now, I will hand out these printable cards. Each of you will receive one. These cards will guide you through today’s lesson, so please pay close attention.
As you fill them out during our activities, remember to actively jot down any mathematical concepts we discuss. Let’s take a moment to go through the card together.
Please look at the section labelled ‘Today's Activities’. You’ll note spaces for taking notes during our group work. Make sure you fill in all the parts as they apply. Once you've received your card, you can start filling it out as we move through the lesson.”
“Okay, now let’s move into our group activity! I want you to form groups of four or five. Once you’re in a group, I will present a design challenge that you need to solve together.
Your challenge is to design a small garden space using specific measurements. You need to calculate area, perimeter, and consider the cost of materials that you'll need. Use your rulers and calculators wisely to ensure accuracy in your designs.
I'll give you ten minutes to brainstorm and jot down your calculations and designs. Remember, make sure to work collaboratively—everyone’s input is valuable! I'll be walking around to offer help if you need it. Let’s start!”
“Time’s up! Now I’d like to check on your progress. Please pass your cards to me, or I may randomly select a few individuals to share what they have filled in.
This is a crucial moment for assessing your understanding. As I review your cards, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve learned about the mathematical concepts we discussed and how they applied to your design challenge.”
“Great work today, everyone! For homework, I want you to choose a product or item you use daily and reflect on the maths involved in its design. Write a short paragraph detailing what mathematical principles are involved in making or using that item.
This assignment is essential as it will help reinforce the concepts we learned today and encourage you to think about maths and design in your everyday life. Make sure to submit it by our next lesson.”
“Before we finish, let’s wrap up what we’ve learned today. We discussed how maths is integral to design and technology and explored concepts like area, perimeter, and budgeting through our group activity.
Does anyone have any questions or need further clarification on anything we covered?
Thank you all for your hard work today! I can’t wait to see your homework reflections. Have a great day!”
Choose a product or item you use daily. What is it, and how would you describe its purpose?
Identify and explain at least two mathematical principles involved in the design of your chosen item. These could include concepts such as geometry, area, volume, or measurement.
Discuss how the understanding of these mathematical principles might affect the efficiency, functionality, or aesthetics of the item.
Consider the manufacturing process of your item. Are there any calculations related to cost or materials that would be necessary? Describe these calculations.
Reflect on your personal experience with the item. How does mathematics play a role in your interaction with it on a daily basis?
Write a short paragraph summarising your findings. Ensure that your writing is clear and concise, using correct spelling and grammar.
Submit your homework by the next lesson, ensuring that you’ve formatted it to include your name, date, and the title “Homework: Maths in Design”.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the significance of mathematics in the design process? | |
| How do you calculate the area of a rectangular garden space? | |
| What formula would you use to determine the perimeter of a garden? | |
| Why is it important to consider the cost of materials in your design project? | |
| Can you give an example of a mathematical principle used in everyday items? | |
| How did you collaborate with your group to solve the design challenge? | |
| What measurements are necessary to accurately design a small garden space? | |
| How can geometry play a role in furniture design? | |
| What role does budgeting play in technology design projects? | |
| In what ways can we apply mathematical concepts when designing electronic devices? |