Select fabrics for functional and aesthetic properties
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can choose fabrics for function and aesthetics.
Key learning points
- Designers use fabric for function.
- Designers use fabric for aesthetics.
- Fabric qualities inform design solutions.
Keywords
Function - a purpose or use
Aesthetics - the way something looks, its appearance
Qualities - specific features
Solution - a way to solve a problem
Common misconception
Fabrics are only chosen for aesthetic reasons.
Fabric selection can be driven by function and aesthetics.
Teacher tip
Pupils will need to consider the type of belt they will use. Consider easy access - simple belts can be made from seatbelt webbing with hook and loop attached or elasticated money belts. Plan where they can be sourced. Will pupils bring in a suitable belt to repurpose or will school provide?
Equipment
Worksheets, pens/pencils and examples of fabric products (see Additonal materials).
Content guidance
Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these fabrics is human-made?
Q2.Match the fabrics to the description.
soft and very flexible
warm and fluffy
stretchy
waterproof
stiff and durable
Q3.Which of these words means 'easy to use'?
Q4.What do we call a list of things a product needs to have or do?
Q5.Which word means to understand others' feelings and experiences?
Q6.Which of the following best describes the word 'utility'?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of these is not an aesthetic quality?
Q2.Which product would need fabric chosen mainly for its aesthetic qualities?
Q3.Which product considers fabric function as its main priority?
Q4.What type of fabric is strong and waterproof?
To help you plan your 5 design and technology lesson on: Select fabrics for functional and aesthetic properties, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 design and technology lesson on: Select fabrics for functional and aesthetic properties, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 design and technology lessons from the Combining fabrics: accessible textiles unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.