South Africa Grade 7 Technology

This course introduces learners to the basics of Technology, fostering technological literacy through practical projects and problem-solving. The curriculum emphasizes the design process, graphical communication, structures, mechanical systems, electrical systems, and the impact of technology on society and the environment.

Term 1: Introduction to Technology and Mechanical Systems

• Introduction to Technology: Learners explore the definition and scope of Technology, examining its role in various careers. The design process (Investigate, Design, Make, Evaluate, Communicate - IDMEC) is introduced as the framework for project development. Design considerations such as fitness-for-purpose, cost-effectiveness, safety, ergonomics, aesthetics, societal impact, and environmental impact are emphasized.
• Graphical Communication: Learners are introduced to the purpose and conventions of graphical communication, including line types (outlines, construction lines, hidden detail), scale, and dimensioning. Skills in free-hand sketching and creating 2D working drawings of objects are developed. 3D oblique and artistic drawing techniques are also explored, using oblique projection and single vanishing point perspective.
• Mechanical Systems and Control: Levers and Linkages: This topic focuses on simple mechanisms, specifically levers. Learners investigate different classes of levers (first, second, and third) and their characteristics, exploring the concept of mechanical advantage qualitatively. They examine simple linked levers in everyday tools and machines.
• Mini-PAT: Jaws of Life Rescue System: Learners apply their knowledge of levers, linkages, pneumatics, and hydraulics to design and build a working model of a rescue device. This project involves writing a design brief, creating 3D and 2D drawings, and constructing a simple working model. The impact of technology is explored through the context of emergency rescue systems.

Term 2: Structures and Design

• Structures: Learners explore the definition, purpose, and classification of structures (natural and man-made). They learn about different types of structures (shell, frame, solid) and investigate methods of strengthening structures through folding, tubing, and triangulation. A case study of cell phone towers is used to examine frame structures and design issues such as visual pollution, stability, and center of gravity.
• Impact of Technology: Learners discuss how designers consider societal needs and the impact of technology on society and the environment. They analyze existing designs, such as school desks and electronic devices, and write design briefs with specifications.
• Mini-PAT: Cell Phone Tower: Learners design and build a model of a cell phone tower, considering structural elements, reinforcing techniques, and design issues. They create free-hand sketches, oblique projections, and single vanishing point perspective drawings. The project involves selecting the best design, creating working drawings, and constructing a model using appropriate materials and safe working practices.

Term 3: Electrical Systems, Magnetism, and Recycling

• Electrical Systems and Control: Magnetism and Electric Circuits: Learners investigate magnetism, experimenting with different types of magnets and identifying materials attracted to magnets. They explore simple electric circuits, constructing and drawing circuits using component symbols. The concept of electromagnetism is introduced through a demonstration of a simple electromagnet.
• Impact of and Bias in Technology: Recycling: Learners explore the impact of technology through a case study on recycling scrap metals. They discuss the positive and negative impacts of recycling and develop a recycling scheme for their school.
• Mechanical Systems and Control: Cranks and Pulleys: Learners are introduced to cranks and pulleys as simple mechanisms, reviewing the concept of mechanical advantage.
• Mini-PAT: Crane with Electromagnet: Learners design and build a crane with an electromagnet to sort metals for recycling. This project integrates knowledge of structures, drawing skills, magnetism, electric circuits, electromagnets, cranks, and pulleys. Learners write a design brief, create sketches and circuit diagrams, and construct a working model using appropriate materials and safe working practices.

Term 4: Processing and Emergency Shelters

• Processing Food: Learners investigate emergency food options and design a nutritious meal suitable for a refugee camp setting. They document the manufacturing sequence and prepare a selected food item, evaluating it based on flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
• Processing: Specialized Clothing: Learners investigate the textiles used in clothing for specialized occupations like firefighters or emergency services personnel.
• Mini-PAT: Shelters for Refugees: Learners design and make a model of an emergency shelter for disaster victims, focusing on materials, construction techniques, and waterproofing. They investigate indigenous building techniques and materials used in informal settlements, comparing them in terms of suitability and environmental impact. The project involves writing a design brief, creating design sketches, and constructing a model using a waterproofed material.