VCDSTS004: Explore the use of familiar designed solutions to meet their needs.
VCDSTC005: Explore the characteristics and properties of familiar designed solutions in at least one technologies context.
VCDSCD006: Experience and explore how designed solutions are created and produced safely to meet personal needs.
Aboriginal Cultural Standards Framework: Cultural Responsiveness Standard - Staff embed Aboriginal cultural knowledge, such as safe cutting techniques for metal tools like spears, to demonstrate respect for community values and environmental stewardship.
Cross-Curriculum Priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures - Students explore traditional metal use practices to understand sustainable and culturally appropriate design solutions.
Cutting and shaping metals require safety precautions to avoid injuries. Tools like hacksaws and shears are used for cutting, while files are employed for smoothing and refining edges after the initial cuts. Shaping involves bending and forming using hammers and anvils, allowing students to create complex forms from raw materials. Wear protective gear like gloves and goggles to shield against flying debris and sharp fragments.
Safe techniques include secure clamping of workpieces to prevent slipping, and making controlled cuts with steady pressure to minimize risks. It's important to inspect tools regularly for damage, such as cracked blades or loose handles, which could lead to accidents. Indigenous practices in Australia often incorporate hand tools for shaping metal spears and other implements, emphasizing sustainable use of resources and respect for the environment. These traditional methods teach patience and precision, integrating cultural stories with practical skills. Year 7 students learn these methods for design projects, combining modern tools with ancient wisdom to foster creativity and cultural awareness. Avoid sharp edges by deburring them promptly, and always use supervision from teachers or experienced adults to guide the process.
In addition, understanding the properties of different metals, such as their hardness and malleability, helps in selecting the right tools and techniques for safe handling. Proper storage of tools prevents accidents and ensures longevity, promoting a responsible workshop environment. Cutting and shaping support creative design while ensuring safety in technology, empowering students to innovate with confidence and respect for traditions.
Here are 20 words from the reading for spelling practice (click to hear the word and a sentence):