Hello there, my name is Mr. Milner, and I am the Wood Technology teacher here in Greystones Community College. Wood Technology is split up into two domains. Practical and theory. The practical consists of 70% while the theory consists of 30% of student’s overall grade.
The practical aspect consists of two further components. Our first component takes a look at introducing and teaching students’ best practice in the use of hand tools and in the use of machines in a practical environment while demonstrating high level of health and safety. This in turn complements students disciplinary and manipulative skills which are all essential skills requested in the design and engineering professions today.
Our second component takes a look at developing students’ knowledge and understanding of the key skills and problems associated with the process of designing. Here students will learn how to interpret and analyze a brief, gather primary and secondary research, evolve a concept or a design through the use of detailed sketching, drafting, documenting and communicating a concept using Computer Aided Design. Although there is large number of skills targeted here. The primary focus is to facilitate conceptual understanding and solving real-life problems as these thought processes are key elements to the development of adolescents today.
Now moving onto the theory. This aims to develop students’ knowledge and appreciation of Wood, Wood processing for example lathing, carving , jointing, the use of Technology such as CNCing and Laser cutting and worldwide growing concerns in relation to the environment around us. Taking a closer look students learn for example about the different manufacturing processes available in the supply and production of timber, the causes, and measures one must take in order to lower environmental impacts, the cell structure of a tree, photosynthesis and much more.
By studying Wood Technology, it covers a wide range of cross curricular links, these include Math’s, Science, Technology, Graphics, Home Economics and Art. In relation to students opportunities Wood Technology prepares students for who later wish to study professions in the line of teaching, engineering, quantity surveying, architecture, graphic design, interior designer, an entrepreneur and professions in a trade.
Lastly, I hope this information has helped you, in relaying what exactly Wood Technology comprises of and offers to your son or daughter if they wish to study Wood Technology here at Greystones Community College. Thank you.
For more information on the Wood Technology Curriculum, please click here.
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