Why glass, wood, plastic, brick or metal would be used for certain jobs - Presentation

The educational presentation on the use of materials such as glass, wood, plastic, brick, and metal encourages children to explore the reasons behind the selection of these materials for specific purposes. It begins with an overview of the main materials found in everyday environments, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses. The session is interactive, with children examining the construction of their own school and documenting the materials they find. This exercise not only familiarises students with the practical applications of these materials but also prompts them to think critically about why certain materials are chosen for particular roles within the school's structure.

Further activities involve pupils working in pairs and groups to classify materials based on whether they are found inside or outside the school, discussing the rationale behind their usage and location. A proforma is provided for students to record their findings, prompting them to consider alternative materials and where to source the ones observed. The presentation progresses to an in-depth analysis of each material, where students investigate the advantages and disadvantages, and consider the implications of using wood, plastic, metal, glass, and bricks in construction. The aim is to equip students with the knowledge to understand the properties of these materials and their suitability for different building needs and environments.