Documenting the Process

Curriculum Area

Technology – Level 6 (NCEA Level 1)
Achievement Standard: 1.1 Generate product or spatial design ideas using visual communication techniques in response to design influences (Source: NCEA Technology – Design and Visual Communication)

Big Idea: Understanding the importance of documenting processes for future reflection, assessment, and communication of design concepts.

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Lesson Overview

This lesson focuses on students creating a visual and written portfolio documenting the building process of their Mai Mai. They will reflect on design choices, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. The portfolio will integrate images, sketches, annotations, and brief written explanations.

Objective:
By the end of the lesson, students will have started a structured portfolio that visually and textually articulates their Mai Mai building journey.

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Lesson Structure (60 Minutes)

1. Introduction – The Importance of Documenting (10 min)

• Teacher Discussion:

  • Explain why documentation is essential in technology and construction – reference real-world scenarios such as architectural plans, instructional guides, and engineering notes.
  • Discuss how industries use design portfolios to showcase work and improvements.
  • Mention that their portfolio will be useful for assessment and future projects.

• Question Prompt:
  Why do you think engineers, designers, and builders always document their process?

• Student Responses:
  (Encourage class discussions; write their key points on the whiteboard.)

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2. Reviewing Mai Mai Progress – Gathering Evidence (15 min)

• Students will review and organise the materials they have collected so far:

  • Blueprints or rough sketches.
  • Photos of the construction process (if taken).
  • Notes on design influences, decisions, and obstacles.
  • Any feedback received from peers or teachers.

• Pair Activity:

  • In groups of two, students will discuss the biggest challenges they have faced and how they overcame them. This will help develop the reflection section of their portfolio.
  • Each pair will share one challenge and solution with the class.

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3. Structuring the Portfolio – Visual Documentation (20 min)

• Teacher Explanation:

  • Show an example of a well-organised design portfolio (either a physical one or digital slides).
  • Explain the key sections they need to include:
    1. Introduction – What is a Mai Mai? What was the goal of their build?
    2. Design Process – Show sketches, measurements, materials used.
    3. Challenges & Solutions – Highlight construction obstacles and how they were solved.
    4. Final Evaluation – What worked well and what could be improved?

• Task:

  • Students will start arranging their work into the portfolio format.
  • They can work on either paper portfolios (A3 pages) or digital slides (if using devices).
  • They must include at least one sketch and two annotation pieces today.

• Teacher Feedback Support:

  • Walk around and provide individualised guidance to students struggling with layout or content.

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4. Peer Review & Exit Reflection (15 min)

• Pair Portfolio Swap:

  • Each student will partner with someone new.
  • They will look at their partner’s portfolio draft and give constructive feedback using two key prompts:
    • One thing that looks great:
    • One area that could be improved:

• Class Reflection:

  • What was the hardest part of documenting your Mai Mai journey?
  • If you had to explain this project to someone who wasn’t here, what would you tell them?

• Teacher Wrap-Up:

  • Reinforce that this documentation will be crucial for their final presentation.
  • Reminder to bring any missing materials for next lesson.

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Assessment & Next Steps

• Homework: Complete at least one more sketch and written explanation at home if unfinished.
• Next Lesson: Preparing a final presentation using their documentation as a guide.

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Differentiation Strategies

✅ For advanced students: Encourage digital sketches using simple CAD or online tools for more refined visual communication.
✅ For students needing more support: Provide structured portfolio templates with guiding questions.

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Teacher Reflection Notes

• Did students effectively engage in the documentation process?
• What areas do they need more guidance on before finalising their portfolios?
• Which students may benefit from additional focused support in the next lesson?

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Why This Will Wow Teachers

✅ Integrates visual, written, and collaborative learning.
✅ Encourages creative documentation, not just technical work.
✅ Mirrors real-world industry practices in design and construction.
✅ Provides structured learning while allowing students creative freedom.

This lesson ensures students understand that building technology isn’t just about construction – it’s also about documenting, reflecting, and communicating design ideas effectively. 🚀