Processing of Materials – Wood

Subject: Basic Technology
Class: JSS 3
Term: First Term
Week: 2
Age: 12-15 years
Topic: Processing of Materials – Wood
Sub-topic: Concept of Wood Processing and Stages
Duration: 60 minutes

Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define the concept of wood processing, including growth and felling.
2. Describe the stages of wood processing in detail.
3. Explain the importance of proper wood processing techniques.
4. Identify the various uses of processed wood in construction and manufacturing.

Keywords

• Wood Processing
• Growth
• Felling
• Stages
• Timber

Set Induction

Start the lesson by showing a short video clip about how trees are grown and processed into wood products. This will engage students and provide a visual context for the topic.

Entry Behaviour

Students should have a basic understanding of what wood is and its uses in everyday life.

Learning Resources and Materials

• Whiteboard and markers
• Projector for the video clip
• Printed handouts on wood processing stages
• Reference books (e.g., Lagos State Scheme of Work)

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Discuss with students the previous lesson on the importance of materials in technology, focusing on natural materials, particularly wood.

Embedded Core Skills

• Critical thinking
• Research skills
• Communication
• Practical skills in woodworking

Learning Materials

• Projector
• Handouts detailing wood processing stages
• Infographics illustrating the growth and felling of trees

Reference Books

• Lagos State Scheme of Work
• Basic Technology Curriculum for JSS
• Woodworking Techniques (Resource Book)

Instructional Materials

• Diagrams showing the growth rings of a tree
• Samples of raw wood and processed wood products

Content

I. Concept of Wood Processing

1. Growth of Wood:
   • Wood comes from trees, which grow over many years.
   • Trees produce new wood annually, forming growth rings.
   • Factors affecting growth include sunlight, water, soil quality, and climate.
2. Felling of Wood:
   • Felling is the process of cutting down trees for timber.
   • It is essential to use proper techniques to ensure safety and sustainability.
   • Felling should be done in accordance with environmental regulations to protect forests.

II. The Stages of Wood Processing

1. Felling:
   • Cutting down trees using saws or axes.
   • Ensuring minimal damage to surrounding trees and environment.
2. Debarking:
   • Removing the bark from the tree trunk to prepare for further processing.
3. Sawing:
   • Cutting the logs into various sizes and shapes, such as planks, beams, and boards.
4. Seasoning:
   • Drying the wood to remove moisture content, preventing warping and decay.
   • Methods include air drying and kiln drying.
5. Finishing:
   • Smoothing and treating the wood surface for aesthetic and protective purposes.
   • This includes sanding, varnishing, or painting.
6. Manufacturing:
   • Creating finished products from processed wood, such as furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.

Evaluation (Fill-in-the-Blank Questions)

1. The process of cutting down trees for timber is called __________. (a) planting (b) felling (c) growing (d) sawing
2. __________ refers to the removal of bark from the wood. (a) Felling (b) Seasoning (c) Debarking (d) Finishing
3. The first stage of wood processing is __________. (a) manufacturing (b) sawing (c) felling (d) seasoning
4. To prepare wood for use, it must go through a process called __________. (a) drying (b) curing (c) processing (d) cooking
5. Proper __________ techniques are important to ensure safety during felling. (a) cutting (b) planting (c) woodworking (d) harvesting
6. Seasoning helps to reduce the __________ content in wood. (a) air (b) moisture (c) bark (d) growth
7. __________ is the stage where wood is cut into planks and boards. (a) Finishing (b) Debarking (c) Sawing (d) Felling
8. Finishing involves smoothing the wood and applying __________. (a) paint (b) soil (c) seeds (d) water
9. Growth rings of a tree indicate __________. (a) age (b) health (c) size (d) type
10. The main purpose of processing wood is to make it __________ for use. (a) unusable (b) safe (c) suitable (d) heavy
11. Proper wood processing can help prevent __________ and warping. (a) decay (b) growth (c) color (d) change
12. __________ wood is essential for making furniture and building materials. (a) Fresh (b) Processed (c) Green (d) Old
13. Debarking prepares the wood for the __________ stage. (a) seasoning (b) manufacturing (c) planting (d) cutting
14. The environment must be protected during the __________ of trees. (a) planting (b) harvesting (c) growing (d) sawing
15. Different types of wood can have different __________ characteristics. (a) financial (b) physical (c) color (d) growth

Class Activity Discussion (FAQs)

1. What is wood processing?
   Wood processing is the method of converting trees into usable wood products.
2. Why is felling done carefully?
   Careful felling prevents damage to the surrounding environment and ensures safety.
3. What happens during the debarking process?
   The bark is removed to prepare the wood for further processing.
4. How does seasoning help wood?
   Seasoning reduces moisture, preventing warping and decay.
5. What tools are used for felling trees?
   Saws and axes are commonly used for felling trees.
6. What is the purpose of sawing?
   Sawing cuts logs into manageable sizes for construction and furniture.
7. How do growth rings help us?
   Growth rings indicate the age and growth conditions of the tree.
8. What is the difference between air drying and kiln drying?
   Air drying uses natural airflow, while kiln drying uses heat to speed up the drying process.
9. Why is finishing important?
   Finishing improves the appearance of the wood and protects it from damage.
10. Can processed wood be used in construction?
    Yes, processed wood is essential for building structures and making furniture.
11. What is a common use for seasoned wood?
    Seasoned wood is often used to make furniture.
12. Are all types of wood suitable for every purpose?
    No, different types of wood have different properties and uses.
13. What role does moisture content play in wood processing?
    High moisture content can lead to problems like warping and decay.
14. What is the environmental impact of tree felling?
    If done improperly, tree felling can lead to deforestation and loss of habitats.
15. How can we ensure sustainable wood processing?
    By following regulations and practices that protect forests and promote replanting.

Teacher’s Activities

1. Revise the previous topic by discussing the importance of materials in technology.
2. Introduce the new topic using the video and providing definitions.
3. Encourage students to ask questions and contribute, correcting misunderstandings where necessary.

Learners’ Activities

1. Participate in discussions about wood processing techniques.
2. Work in pairs to research a specific stage of wood processing and share findings.
3. Complete fill-in-the-blank questions and FAQs.

Evaluation Questions

1. Define wood processing in your own words.
2. Why is it important to remove the bark from wood?
3. List the stages of wood processing in order.
4. Explain the significance of seasoning wood.
5. What tools are commonly used in wood processing?
6. Describe the role of growth rings in understanding a tree’s age.
7. How can improper felling practices harm the environment?
8. What is the difference between processed wood and raw wood?
9. Discuss how wood is used in everyday life.
10. Why is it essential to use sustainable practices in wood processing?

Conclusion

The teacher will circulate the classroom, marking students’ work and providing feedback on their understanding of wood processing. This will reinforce their learning and clarify any remaining doubts.