YEAR 9/10 DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

At the beginning of semester one, twenty-one Year 9 and 10 Design Technology (Metal) students were given the task to design and produce a sculpture garden at the front of MESC.

The class decided to follow the theme of ‘Fish’ and after dividing into seven groups, took on the challenge.

Students began by designing a two-dimensional fish which could be constructed using 10mm solid metal rod. Over the following months students cut, bent and manipulated the metal into their fish designs. They also had to incorporate a stabilising stand for their fish that would not only support their sculpture but also appear aesthetically pleasing. In order to join their metal rod all students had to learn the skill of MIG welding. This was something which all students seemed to really enjoy and excel at. On average it took 4-5 hours per group to weld their sculptures together. When the sculptures were finished they were sent to Dandenong to be galvanically coated.

The final episode of the process was concreting the sculptures into the ground and creating a complete sculptural garden with stones and mulch. The end result is a “piece de resistance” and wonderful showpiece for the face of the College’s grounds.

It is truly a credit to the imagination, design capability and dedication of our talented Year 9 and 10 students.

Sue Holderness, Design Technology Teacher