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      Reforming manufacturing processes

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can identify and use reforming manufacturing processes.

      Key learning points

      1. Reforming materials changes the shape and the state.
      2. Injection moulding is a reforming process for polymers.
      3. Casting is a reforming process for metals.

      Keywords

      • Reforming - changing the material shape and state

      • Molten - made liquid by heat

      • Mould - a hollow shape which can be used to form materials

      Common misconception

      Reforming is the same as deforming.

      Reforming changes the state AND the shape; solid, liquid and back to solid. Deforming only changes the shape; the materials always remain a solid.

      Teacher tip

      Using a glue gun to emulate injection moulding is a great way for students to have a practical experience of an industrial process.

      Equipment

      Glue gun and mould. Pewter casting facilities.

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Accuracy is closeness to the measurement.

      Correct Answer: correct

      Q2.
      What is this the definition for? 'Using the least amount of resources to achieve a goal'.

      Correct answer: efficiency
      quickly
      swiftly
      productively
      neatly

      Q3.
      Identify this piece of equipment.

      An image in a quiz
      Correct answer: ellipse template
      eclipse template
      circle template

      Q4.
      A manufacturing process where materials are joined together is called ...

      Correct Answer: fabricating, fabrication

      Q5.
      In the school workshop who is responsible for health and safety?

      the headteacher
      the classroom teacher
      the students
      the technician
      Correct answer: everyone

      Q6.
      What does PPE stand for?

      Correct answer: personal protective equipment
      proper protective equipment
      personal protective clothing
      apron and goggles

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Reforming is a manufacturing process where the shape and the __________ are changed.

      Correct answer: state
      size
      stage
      sphere

      Q2.
      Which materials can be reformed?

      Correct answer: polymers
      Correct answer: metals
      timbers
      textiles
      papers

      Q3.
      is a metal with a low melting range which makes it suitable for using in schools.

      Correct Answer: Pewter

      Q4.
      When casting metal, what is the PPE worn made from?

      Correct answer: leather
      cotton
      nylon

      Q5.
      What are the advantages of injection moulding?

      Correct answer: quick
      Correct answer: repeatable
      Correct answer: accurate
      low cost
      simple shapes

      Q6.
      Why does casting metal use a lot of energy?

      Correct answer: Melting points are high temperatures.
      Melting points are low temperatures.

      To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Reforming manufacturing processes, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...