Who are the important people that have developed useful, new materials? - Teacher notes

In a unit designed to explore the innovation behind materials, children are introduced to three significant figures who have each developed materials for a specific purpose. These individuals are John Dunlop, Charles Macintosh, and John McAdam, pioneers in their respective fields who have made notable contributions to the way we utilise materials in everyday life. John Dunlop is known for his development of the first practical pneumatic tyre, which revolutionised the transportation industry and has had a lasting impact on modern travel and vehicle design.

Charles Macintosh, on the other hand, is celebrated for his invention of waterproof fabric, leading to the creation of rainwear that has become essential in inclement weather. His work has provided a solution to staying dry and comfortable in the rain. Lastly, John McAdam's legacy lies in the development of a new road construction method known as 'macadamisation', which improved the durability and effectiveness of road surfaces. These innovators are studied to give children an understanding of how materials can be manipulated and transformed to serve practical purposes, enhancing our interaction with the world around us.