Joining processes for polymers
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain various mechanical and chemical methods to join different materials.
Key learning points
- Materials can be joined using mechanical fixings or components.
- Materials can be joined using heat and substances that create chemical bonds between surfaces.
Keywords
Mechanical fixings - a part that holds materials together using force
Chemical joining - using adhesives or heat to bond materials through a chemical reaction
Component - a ready-made part used across different products to make manufacturing easier
Common misconception
All joining methods work the same for every material.
Different materials need different joining methods based on their properties.
Teacher tip
Try to organise a small practical based on any of the processes mentioned in this lesson to fully embed learning.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following statements is INCORRECT?
Q2.What does 'structural integrity' refer to in materials and structures?
Q3.What is one main benefit of using standard stock forms in manufacturing?
Q4.Match the action to its force:
torque (twist)
push
pull
Q5.Shaping materials again without changing its basic chemical structure is called ...
Q6.Which property would be MOST important when choosing a material for a flexible, stretchable item like a bungee cord?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A ready-made part used across different products to make manufacturing easier is called a ...
Q2.Which statement best defines a mechanical fixing?
Q3.Which is an example of chemical joining?
Q4.Which statement is correct about joining methods and materials?
Q5.Match the mechanical fixing to the correct description.
flexible clip locks parts together
parts press together and hold by friction
can be pushed, screwed or melted together
thread bites into polymer for grip
removable and often used with washers
Q6.Match the chemical joining process to its correct description:
melts and fuses polymer parts
softens polymer surfaces to join
very strong adhesive, often for high-strength bonds
melts and sticks quickly, not very strong
bonds quickly by reacting with moisture
To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Joining processes for polymers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Joining processes for polymers, 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 4 design and technology lessons from the Polymers unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.