Weatherproofing Structures

Lesson Overview

Unit: Building a Mai Mai
Lesson: 15 of 28
Year Level: 11
Curriculum Area: Technology – Design and Visual Communication
NZ Curriculum Level: 6
Class Size: 13 students
Lesson Duration: 60 minutes

Lesson Objective

Students will explore and apply weatherproofing techniques to enhance the durability of their Mai Mai, ensuring it withstands New Zealand's climate conditions.

Lesson Breakdown

1. Introduction – Why Weatherproofing Matters (10 minutes)

• Hook: Show students images of poorly weatherproofed structures in New Zealand and discuss real-world consequences (e.g., rotting wood, leaks, mould growth).
• Quick Class Brainstorm: What weather challenges does a Mai Mai face? (Wind, rain, humidity, temperature changes, UV exposure).
• Link to the Building Code: Briefly discuss how weatherproofing aligns with sustainable building practices (NZ Building Code Clause E2 - External Moisture).

2. Materials and Techniques Discussion (15 minutes)

• Teacher-Led Explanation – Cover key weatherproofing methods, including:
  • Sealing: Using waterproof paint or sealants to protect wood.
  • Cladding Choices: Materials like corrugated iron vs. treated plywood.
  • Drainage & Ventilation: Preventing water from pooling while allowing air circulation.
  • Elevated Foundations: Raising structures to prevent flood damage.
• Student Inquiry: Give students different samples (e.g., untreated wood vs. treated wood) and ask them what they notice about water absorption.

3. Hands-On Activity (25 minutes)

• Task: Students work in pairs to experiment with different weatherproofing options.
• Materials Provided: Small untreated wood samples, waterproof sealant, paintbrushes, small roofing/cladding samples, water spray bottle.
• Process:
  1. Apply sealant or waterproof paint to a wood sample.
  2. Compare how different materials (sealed vs. unsealed, iron vs. plywood) resist water by spraying them with water.
  3. Make predictions and record observations.

4. Reflection & Wrap-Up (10 minutes)

• Pair Discussion: Students discuss which techniques they found most effective and how they’d apply them in their Mai Mai.
• Exit Ticket: Each student writes one key takeaway on a sticky note and places it on the class “Learning Wall.”
• Homework/Extension: Research a real-world New Zealand structure (e.g., a hunting hut, DOC shelter) and identify its weatherproofing techniques.

Assessment & Differentiation

Formative Assessment

• Teacher circulates and questions students about their choices during the hands-on activity.
• Observations of engagement and understanding based on student discussions and reflections.

Differentiation Strategies

• For students needing extra support: Provide a visual checklist of weatherproofing steps.
• For advanced learners: Challenge them to think about sustainable and eco-friendly weatherproofing solutions.

NZ Curriculum Links

• Technological Practice: Students develop and refine their Mai Mai design by applying practical weatherproofing methods.
• Nature of Technology: Understanding the impact of weatherproofing decisions on durability and sustainability.
• Brief Development: Students incorporate considerations of climate and material suitability into their designs.

This engaging, hands-on lesson helps Year 11 students connect their learning to real-world applications, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking in a relevant New Zealand context.