GRADE 9 Pre-technical TOOLS AND PRODUCTION – PROJECT Notes
PRE-TECHNICAL — TOOLS AND PRODUCTION
Subtopic: PROJECT
This note explains how to plan and make a simple school project. It is for students aged about 14 in Kenya. We cover how to choose a project, plan it, list tools and materials, keep safe, and present results.
A project is a planned activity that produces something useful — for example a bench for the classroom, a school garden bed, a soap bar to sell, or a phone stand. Projects can be individual or done in groups.
Typical steps in a project 📝
- Choose an idea (useful and realistic).
- Research (ask teachers, look at examples, measure available space).
- Design and draw (simple sketch with measurements).
- List materials and tools and estimate cost.
- Make a work plan and assign roles if in a group.
- Build the project following safety rules.
- Test the finished item and present results (report or demonstration).
Example project: Simple classroom bench (team of 3)
Purpose: Provide seating for students. Approx. time: 3–5 days. Cost estimate shown in KES (Kenyan Shilling).
- Timber planks (2" x 6") — 2 pieces
- Timber for legs — 4 pieces
- Screws / Nails
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or varnish (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Hand saw (or circular saw with teacher)
- Hammer / Screwdriver
- Drill (if available) — teacher supervision
- Try square / Pencil
- Clamps (helpful)
Sample cost estimate (example)
| Item | Qty | Cost (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Timber planks | 2 | 1,000 |
| Leg timber | 4 | 300 |
| Screws / nails / glue | — | 200 |
| Total | 1,500 KES |
Simple plan / timeline
- Day 1: Measure and mark, cut timber.
- Day 2: Assemble seat and legs, use screws and glue.
- Day 3: Sand and finish; paint or varnish if time allows.
Group roles (if in a team)
- Leader: organizes team and checks plan.
- Measure & cut: marks and cuts pieces (with supervision).
- Assembler: screws, glues and fits parts together.
- Finisher: sands and paints/varnishes the bench.
Safety first ⚠️
- Always wear safety goggles and closed shoes.
- Use tools only after teacher instruction.
- Keep fingers away from blades. Use a push stick when needed.
- Power tools must be used with adult supervision.
- Clean your workspace and store tools safely after use.
How to present your project (quick checklist) ✅
- Explain the idea and why it is useful.
- Show your drawing and measurements.
- Show the materials list and cost.
- Show the finished product and demonstrate it (sit on bench, pour water into tank etc.).
- Explain any problems and how you solved them.
- Use local, low-cost materials where possible (reclaimed timber, recycled plastic bottles for planters).
- Visit a local carpenter or ask a parent to guide you on tool use.
- Think of projects that help your school or community (rainwater collection, vegetable bed, sign boards).
Quick visual: project flow
Final note: Start with small projects you can finish in class. Ask your teacher when in doubt. Practice makes your skills better — keep your tools clean and safe!
Prepared for Pre-technical learners (age 14) — Kenya