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      Parts lists: polymers and timbers

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can prepare a parts list for my design.

      Key learning points

      1. Designs are communicated using parts lists.
      2. A parts list is a structured document outlining the components needed to assemble a product.
      3. A parts list along with an orthographic projection of a design can inform manufacture.

      Keywords

      • Parts list - components required to assemble a product

      • Component - a single part of a larger product

      • Quantity - the amount or number of something

      Common misconception

      Parts lists are only needed for materials or components which need to be bought in.

      A parts lists supports the thinking needed in preparation of manufacture for all components of a design. They help identify quantities and can highlight mistakes. A well-structured parts list speeds up production and ensures cost efficiency.

      Teacher tip

      Keep the parts list clear and organised by using columns for part names, descriptions, quantities, and reference numbers. This makes it easy for students to read and follow. Use real world products as a way of practicing how to construct a parts list.

      Equipment

      Access to computers. Access to CAD.

      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.
      are the characteristics of a material, such as appearance and features.

      Correct Answer: Physical properties

      Q2.
      Which stock forms are polymers available in?

      plank
      Correct answer: sheet
      Correct answer: granules
      moulding
      Correct answer: rod

      Q3.
      What is the name of the document that contains all of the information needed to manufacture a product?

      Correct Answer: manufacturing specification, a manufacturing specification, specification

      Q4.
      What would a designer use to represent objects in a different size than their actual dimensions?

      proportion
      Correct answer: scale
      dimension
      measurement

      Q5.
      An orthographic projection represents a three-dimensional object in ...

      one dimension.
      Correct answer: two dimensions.
      three dimensions.
      four dimensions.

      Q6.
      On an orthographic projection, the view showing the top of the product is called the view.

      isometric
      Correct answer: plan
      front
      top
      side

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      A parts list is a structured document detailing the individual components required to ...

      design a product.
      sell a product.
      test a product.
      Correct answer: manufacture a product.

      Q2.
      A parts list supports the thinking needed in preparation of the manufacture for components of a design, not just ones that are bought in.

      most
      Correct answer: all
      some
      shop bought
      homemade

      Q3.
      Match the parts list elements with their definition.

      Correct Answer:part number,a number that you assign to one component in your design

      a number that you assign to one component in your design

      Correct Answer:part name,a name or description of the part for reference

      a name or description of the part for reference

      Correct Answer:quantity,the amount you need of this specific component

      the amount you need of this specific component

      Correct Answer:source,where the component is coming from

      where the component is coming from

      Q4.
      A component is ...

      an amount.
      a finished product.
      Correct answer: a single part of a larger product.

      Q5.
      What is the name of this symbol?

      An image in a quiz
      Correct Answer: balloon, balloon symbol

      To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Parts lists: polymers and timbers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...