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Year 8 - Design and technology

Modern material properties

Material testing

Unit Summary

This unit will develop pupils' knowledge of the physical and working properties of materials. They will compare material properties through testing, with a focus on metals. The environmental and social impact of materials will also be introduced.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe the properties and uses of modern materials.

Key Notes

  • Modern materials are continually being developed through the invention of new or improved processes.
  • Examples of modern materials include: Nomex, Teflon, Fastskin, PLA, Kevlar and composites.
  • Composite materials combine the properties of two or more materials.
  • Examples of composite materials include GRP, CFRP and laminates.
  • Modern materials have improved working and/or physical properties.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • modern material: are continually being developed through the invention of new or improved processes
  • working property: the way in which a material responds to an external force or certain environment; also referred to as mechanical properties
  • physical property: the characteristics of a material, such as appearance and features
  • composites: combine the properties of two or more materials without being mixed at a chemical level

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Modern materials only provide advantages to designers and users.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Modern materials are continually being developed through the invention of new or improved processes. Examples of modern materials include: Nomex, Teflon, Fastskin, PLA, Kevlar and composites.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'modern material'

are continually being developed through the invention of new or improved processes.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Modern materials only provide advantages to designers and users. Correction: Modern materials are often difficult and expensive to produce and are also difficult to recycle.

More Lessons In This Unit

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