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Reforming manufacturing processes for papers and boards

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can explain and compare small-scale and industrial reforming processes.

Key learning points

  1. Reforming involves reshaping a material into a new form without changing its basic chemical structure.
  2. Small-scale production methods can be used to reform materials.
  3. Reforming materials on a larger scale require different techniques.
  4. Recycling and upcycling save resources, reduce waste, and give new life to old materials.

Keywords

  • Reform - reshaping a material into a new form without changing its basic chemical structure

  • Recycle - convert waste into reusable materials

  • Upcycle - turning old or unwanted materials/products into something useful

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

  • Former - a solid object that a material is manipulated around to create a specific shape

Common misconception

The same tools and methods are used for both small-scale and industrial manufacturing.

The scale of production heavily influences tool choice, speed, accuracy, and repeatability.

Teacher tip

Try to organise a small practical based on any of the processes mentioned in this lesson to fully embed learning.

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), 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.
What is 'automation' in manufacturing?

the use of recycled materials in production
Correct answer: the use of machines or technology to perform tasks
the process of making products by hand only
the design of mass-produced goods

Q2.
What does 'industrial' typically refer to in manufacturing?

small, handcrafted products made by a single person
Correct answer: large-scale production using machinery and technology
purely artistic or sculptural items
activities done at home by a hobbyist

Q3.
What does 'structural integrity' refer to in materials and structures?

Correct answer: it can maintain its shape under normal conditions without breaking
the aesthetic appearance of a structure
it can resist environmental changes like temperature and moisture
the cost-effectiveness of building a structure

Q4.
Match the action to its force.

Correct Answer:opening a jar lid,torque (twist)

torque (twist)

Correct Answer:sliding a box across the floor,push

push

Correct Answer:tugging on a rope,pull

pull

Q5.
What is one main benefit of using standard stock forms in manufacturing?

they are always made from recycled materials
they are customised for each product
Correct answer: they're easier to transport, store, and use in different manufacturing processes
they don't require specialised tools to work with

Q6.
Which group includes only natural materials?

polypropylene, nylon, wool
Correct answer: gold, cotton, oak
polyester, glass, corrugated cardboard
acrylic, steel, linen

6 Questions

Q1.
Shaping materials again without changing its basic chemical structure is called .

Correct Answer: reforming, reform

Q2.
What is the main purpose of recycling?

Correct answer: to save resources
to generate waste
to collect raw materials
to increase pollution

Q3.
What is the main goal of upcycling?

Correct answer: to add value to old items
to throw things away faster
to burn waste materials
to create pollution

Q4.
The mixture that is made when mixing paper pieces with water is called .

Correct Answer: pulp, paper pulp

Q5.
Match the process to the correct definition.

Correct Answer:papier mâché,soaking paper in a glue or paste mixture and layering it over a former

soaking paper in a glue or paste mixture and layering it over a former

Correct Answer:pulp moulding,using recycled paper pulp to form shaped products using moulds

using recycled paper pulp to form shaped products using moulds

Correct Answer:bonding,joining layers of paper or cardboard together

joining layers of paper or cardboard together

Q6.
Put the paper recycling process in order.

1 - paper collection
2 - de-inking
3 - cleaning chambers
4 - pulpers
5 - paper making rollers
6 - finished recycled paper

To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Reforming manufacturing processes for papers and boards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...