Preparing for the Field

Lesson Overview

Unit: Building a Mai Mai
Lesson Number: 19 of 28
Year Level: 11
Subject: Technology – Materials and Processing Technology
Duration: 60 minutes
Class Size: 13 students

This lesson is designed to prepare students for the logistics of transporting the Mai Mai structure to the field, planning for assembly, and executing the setup process efficiently. Students will apply technological practice principles, problem-solving skills, and teamwork to ensure the success of the final build phase.

Curriculum Links

Technology Learning Area – Level 6

This lesson aligns with:

• Technological Practice: Planning, evaluating, and managing the design and construction process.
• Technological Knowledge: Understanding materials, their properties, and methods of construction.
• Nature of Technology: Considering real-world implications, environmental factors, and stakeholder needs in a project.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will:

1. Identify key logistical challenges for transporting the Mai Mai.
2. Develop a step-by-step plan for safe assembly and setup in the field.
3. Allocate roles and responsibilities for site construction.
4. Consider environmental and ethical factors related to the placement of the Mai Mai.

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Lesson Plan Structure

1. Welcome & Recap (5 minutes)

• Briefly review the previous lesson’s outcomes (material selection, structural integrity).
• Introduce today’s focus: How do we get the Mai Mai to the field and set it up safely?
• Display a visual timeline of the upcoming lessons for clarity.

2. Transport Logistics Breakdown (10 minutes)

• Class Discussion: What challenges might we face moving a large structure?
• List generation on whiteboard:
  • Vehicle requirements
  • Route planning
  • Loading and securing materials
  • Weather conditions
  • Permissions and regulations
• Team Brainstorm: Each table of 3-4 students tackles one transport issue and proposes a solution.

3. Planning the Assembly Process (15 minutes)

• Group Activity: Divide the class into four teams, each representing an assembly stage:
  1. Base and framing
  2. Wall structures
  3. Roof and weatherproofing
  4. Final detailing and camouflage
• Each group creates a step-by-step setup guide with job roles and safety considerations.
• Groups share and refine their plans with peer feedback.

4. Resource & Role Allocation (15 minutes)

• Hands-on Planning:
  • Assign key roles: Site supervisor, safety officer, materials coordinator, assembly crew.
  • Identify necessary tools and safety gear.
  • Discuss time estimates for each phase.
• Scenario Challenge: Teacher presents a "What if?" scenario (e.g. "What if we arrive at the site and a key part is missing?") for groups to problem-solve on the spot.

5. Environmental & Ethical Considerations (10 minutes)

• Class Discussion:
  • What impact does building a Mai Mai have on the environment?
  • How can we ensure we follow local regulations and respect the natural habitat?
• Students create a "Sustainable Build Checklist", ensuring minimal environmental impact during setup.

6. Wrap-up & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Quickfire Q&A on key takeaways.
• Exit Ticket: Each student writes down one potential transportation or setup challenge and a proposed solution.
• Teacher provides an overview of next lesson: "Finalising Construction Plans".

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Resources & Materials Required

✅ Whiteboard & markers
✅ Large sheets of paper for group planning
✅ Model or blueprint of the Mai Mai
✅ Example fastening materials (bolts, hinges) for discussion
✅ PPE (gloves, helmets) for demonstrating safety planning

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Assessment & Reflection

• Formative Checkpoint: Teacher listens in and questions group planning discussions.
• Self-Assessment: Students rate their confidence in the transport/setup plan on a 1-5 scale.
• Teacher Feedback: Provide targeted feedback on each group's assembly steps.

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Teacher Notes & Differentiation

• Supporting Students with Diverse Needs:
  • Visual learners: Provide diagrams and process charts.
  • Hands-on learners: Allow physical assembly of a scaled-down model.
  • Struggling students: Pair with confident peers for collaborative planning.
• Extension for Advanced Students:
  • Introduce elements of CAD software for digital setup simulations.
  • Encourage students to consider disaster resilience in their design (flood resistance).

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Final Note

This lesson transforms a logistical challenge into an engaging, student-led planning session—building critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills essential for future projects.