Unit brief
Learners will develop the skills needed to make minor home improvements and maintenance repairs.
Unit information
A lot of people enjoy doing DIY in their homes but there are also many people who do not have the skills or confidence to try it for themselves. These people are more likely to hire the services of someone who can make minor repairs for them.
This unit will help you start developing the skills and qualities needed to make minor repairs in a house. You will find out about the best methods, tools and materials to use when making a minor repair. You will develop the skills needed to manage your own workload and to work with others. These skills will help you work effectively with your customer and in a team so the repairs are carried out efficiently and professionally.
The transferable and sector skills you develop in this unit can enable you to progress to further learning. They will also support you in completing the core skills units in Group A of the qualification.
Learning aims
A Make minor repairs in a house using maintenance skills
B Manage own responsibilities and communicate effectively with others when making minor repairs in a house.
Tracking sheet
Tracking sheet for learners completing CON10
Learning content
Lessons
Learning objectives
To be able to explain the different tools and their uses.
Connector (10 minutes)
Learners to complete thought shower around making minor repairs in a home.
Course Overview: Explain that this lesson serves as an introduction to a DIY and tool safety course. Briefly outline the topics to be covered in the course and its duration (10 weeks).
Introduce learning aims, objectives and assessment criteria.
Activate:
Activity 1: Importance of Safety Guidelines (15 minutes)
Discussion: Discuss the importance of safety in DIY and using hand tools. Emphasise that safety is the top priority in any DIY project.
Safety Guidelines Handout: Provide students with a handout that summarises key safety guidelines for working with hand tools. Go through the guidelines together, highlighting key points.
Activity 2: Introduction to Hand Tools (20 minutes)
Types of Hand Tools: Explain that hand tools are essential for DIY projects and home repairs. Introduce various hand tools commonly used in DIY, including wrenches, pliers, hammers, and screwdrivers.
Focus on Screwdrivers: Detail the types of screwdrivers, including slotted head, Phillips, and posi-drive. Show examples of each type and explain their specific uses.
Activity 3: Hands-On Screwdriver Practice (40 minutes)
Safety Gear: Emphasise the importance of wearing safety goggles and gloves when working with hand tools.
Demonstrate:
1, 2 and 3 Screwdriver Demonstration: Demonstrate how to safely hold and use each type of screwdriver. Explain the difference between clockwise (tightening) and counterclockwise (loosening) motions.
4. Hands-On Practice: Distribute pieces of wood or cardboard and a variety of screws. Instruct students to use the appropriate screwdriver to drive screws into the material and remove them. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points covered in the lesson, emphasising the importance of safety and introducing various types of screwdrivers.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which will delve into more specific DIY and tool-related topics.
Introduce next lesson
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to use different types of screwdrivers safely through their active participation in the hands-on practice.
Learning objectives
To be able to identify and describe different basic electrical components.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on hand tools, screwdrivers, and tool safety. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on basic electrical components, fuse replacement, and safely wiring a plug.
Activate:
1: Introduction to Electrical Components (20 minutes)
Understanding Electrical Components: Introduce the basic electrical components, including plugs, fuses, and wires. Explain their roles in electrical circuits and the importance of electrical safety.
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for electrical work. Discuss key safety principles, such as switching off the power before handling electrical components.
Con10.5B How does a fuse work?
2: Replacing a Fuse (25 minutes)
What is a Fuse: Explain the purpose of fuses in electrical circuits. Describe how fuses protect against electrical overloads and short circuits.
Practical Demonstration: Show students how to safely replace a fuse in a plug. Use a dummy electrical circuit or a visual aid to illustrate the process step by step.
3: Wiring a Plug Safely (30 minutes)
Components of a Plug: Explain the different parts of an electrical plug, including the three wires (live, neutral, and earth) and the prongs.
Safe Wiring: Demonstrate how to safely wire a plug step by step. Emphasize the importance of correct wiring to prevent electrical hazards.
Demonstrate:
2. Hands-On Practice: Provide each student or small group with an electrical plug and a fuse. Instruct them to replace the fuse in the plug following the demonstrated procedure. Supervise and assist as needed.
3. Hands-On Wiring: Distribute electrical plugs, wires, and a set of instructions to each student or small group. Instruct them to wire the plug following the provided guidelines. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, highlighting the importance of electrical safety, understanding electrical components, and practising safe fuse replacement and plug wiring.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which will cover more advanced electrical topics.
Introduce next lesson
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to replace a fuse and wire a plug safely through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Understand the basics of electrical wiring and cables.
Properly use wire cutters and wire strippers.
Safely handle and connect electrical cables
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on electrical components, fuses, plugs, and safety guidelines. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on electrical wiring, cable handling, and the proper use of wire cutters and strippers.
Activate:
1: Introduction to Electrical Wiring and Cables (20 minutes)
Understanding Electrical Wiring: Introduce the concept of electrical wiring and its role in electrical circuits. Explain that wires carry electricity from one point to another.
Types of Electrical Cables: Explain different types of electrical cables, emphasizing safety and insulation. Discuss the differences between live, neutral, and earth wires.
Con10.6 Electrical wiring and cables
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for electrical work. Discuss key safety principles, such as checking cables for damage before use.
2: Proper Use of Wire Cutters and Wire Strippers (20 minutes)
Wire Cutters and Wire Strippers: Explain the functions of wire cutters and wire strippers in electrical work. Emphasise their role in ensuring clean and safe connections.
Demonstrate how to properly use wire cutters to cut electrical cables and wire strippers to remove insulation from wires.
3: Safely Handling and Connecting Electrical Cables (30 minutes)
Handling Electrical Cables: Discuss safe handling practices for electrical cables, including avoiding kinks and sharp bends.
Connecting Electrical Cables: Explain how to safely connect electrical cables using connectors or electrical tape. Emphasise the importance of secure connections.
Demonstrate:
2. Hands-On Practice: Provide students with stripped electrical cables and instruct them to practise using wire cutters and strippers under supervision. Encourage them to make clean and precise cuts.
3. Hands-On Exercise: Provide students with electrical cables, connectors, and electrical tape. Instruct them to practise safely connecting cables, securing them with connectors or electrical tape. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate: (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, highlighting the importance of understanding electrical wiring, using wire cutters and strippers correctly, and safely handling and connecting electrical cables.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which will cover more advanced electrical topics.
Introduce next lesson
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to use wire cutters and strippers properly and safely handle and connect electrical cables through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Identify different types of light fittings, including rose and cable and pendant.
Safely use low-level access platforms for working on light fittings.
Demonstrate practical skills in installing and handling light fittings.
Connect (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on electrical wiring, cable handling, and safety guidelines. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on different types of light fittings, safe use of low-level access platforms, and hands-on practice with light fittings.
Activate:
Activity 1: Types of Light Fittings (20 minutes)
Introduction to Light Fittings: Present various types of light fittings, including rose and cable and pendant. Describe their characteristics and common uses in home and commercial settings.
Activity 2: Safe Use of Low-Level Access Platforms (15 minutes)
Understanding Low-Level Access Platforms: Explain the purpose of low-level access platforms and their role in providing safe access when working on light fittings or other tasks at low heights.
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for working at heights. Discuss key safety principles, including the importance of stability and proper positioning of the platform.
Con10.8 Safety when working at heights
3: Practical Demonstration and Hands-On Practice (40 minutes)
Safe Use of Low-Level Access Platforms: Demonstrate how to safely set up and use low-level access platforms. Emphasise the importance of checking the platform's stability before use.
Demonstrate:
Hands-On Practice: If available, provide students with low-level access platforms and a variety of light fittings.
Consolidate (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, highlighting the types of light fittings, the safe use of low-level access platforms, and the importance of following safety guidelines.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may cover more advanced topics related to electrical work and home repairs.
Introduce next lesson
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to use low-level access platforms safely and work with light fittings through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Understand what flat-packed cabinet units are.
Know how to assemble and disassemble flat-packed furniture.
Practice assembling flat-packed furniture.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on light fittings, low-level access platforms, safety guidelines for working at heights, and safety protocols. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on flat-packed cabinet units, including what they are, how to assemble and disassemble them, and practical assembly exercises.
Activate:
1: Introduction to Flat-Packed Cabinet Units (15 minutes)
Understanding Flat-Packed Furniture: Define what flat-packed cabinet units are and provide examples of the types of furniture that come in flat-pack form (e.g., kitchen cabinets, bookshelves, tables).
2: Assembly and Disassembly (20 minutes)
Assembly Process: Explain the typical process of assembling flat-packed furniture, including reading instructions, identifying parts, and using tools effectively.
Disassembly: Discuss why it might be necessary to disassemble furniture (e.g., moving, repairs). Explain the importance of carefully taking apart furniture to avoid damage.
3: Practical Furniture Assembly (40 minutes)
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for furniture assembly. Discuss key safety principles, such as following instructions and using tools safely.
4.Discussion and Reflection: After completing the assembly, have students discuss their experiences, any challenges they faced, and what they learned from the process.
Demonstrate:
3. Hands-On Furniture Assembly: Provide each student or small group with a flat-packed cabinet unit and the necessary tools. Instruct them to follow the assembly instructions step by step. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, emphasising the understanding of flat-packed cabinet units, the assembly and disassembly processes, and the importance of safety.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may cover additional aspects of DIY projects or home repairs.
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to follow assembly instructions and assemble flat-packed furniture through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Identify different types of door locks, including level lock handles, Yale night latch, and mortise recessed locks.
Understand the process of cylinder removal and replacement in door locks.
Practise the skills of cylinder removal and replacement on door locks.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on flat-packed furniture assembly, the importance of safety, and tool usage. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on different types of door locks, the process of cylinder removal and replacement, and practical exercises with door locks.
Activate:
1: Types of Door Locks (20 minutes)
Introduction to Door Locks: Present various types of door locks, including level lock handles, Yale night latch, and mortise recessed locks. Describe their characteristics and common uses in home security.
2: Cylinder Removal and Replacement (20 minutes)
Understanding Cylinder Locks: Explain the role of the cylinder lock in securing doors and how it operates.
Demonstration: Demonstrate the process of cylinder removal and replacement in a door lock. Use visual aids to illustrate the key steps.
3: Practical Demonstration and Hands-On Practice (40 minutes)
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for working with door locks. Discuss key safety principles, such as handling tools with care.
Discussion and Reflection: After completing the practical exercise, have students discuss their experiences, any challenges they faced, and what they learned from the process.
Demonstrate:
3. Hands-On Cylinder Removal and Replacement: Provide each student or small group with a door lock and the necessary tools. Instruct them to practise removing and replacing the cylinder in the door lock following the demonstrated procedure. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate: (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, emphasising the understanding of door lock types, the process of cylinder removal and replacement, and the importance of safety.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may cover additional aspects of home security or home improvement.
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to follow the procedure for cylinder removal and replacement through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Extension Activity (Optional):
Explore advanced topics related to door security, such as electronic locks, keyless entry systems, and smart locks, to introduce students to evolving technologies in home security.
Discuss the importance of maintaining door locks and conducting regular checks for security and safety.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Identify and describe various general woodworking tools, including saws and sanders.
Understand the proper usage and safety precautions for woodworking tools.
Safely and effectively use woodworking tools in a practical exercise.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on door locks, cylinder removal and replacement, and safety guidelines. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Leanrers to complete feeedback slip provided by tutor.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on general woodworking tools, their proper usage, safety precautions, and hands-on practice with woodworking tools.
Activate:
1: Introduction to Woodworking Tools (20 minutes)
Types of Woodworking Tools: Present various general woodworking tools, including saws (e.g., hand saws, circular saws) and sanders (e.g., belt sanders, orbital sanders). Describe their characteristics and common uses in woodworking projects.
2: Proper Usage and Safety Precautions (20 minutes)
Proper Usage: Explain the proper techniques for using woodworking tools, including how to hold and operate them safely and effectively.
Safety Precautions: Discuss key safety precautions for woodworking, such as wearing safety goggles and ear protection, using dust masks when sanding, and keeping hands and other objects away from moving parts.
3: Practical Exercise with Woodworking Tools (40 minutes)
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for woodworking. Discuss key safety principles, such as maintaining a clean workspace and proper storage of tools.
4.Discussion and Reflection:
After completing the practical exercise, have students discuss their experiences, any challenges they faced, and what they learned from the process.
Demonstrate:
3. Hands-On Woodworking:
Provide each student or small group with a piece of wood or softwood board and a woodworking tool (e.g., saw or sander). Instruct them to practise using the tool to make cuts or sand the wood. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate: (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, emphasising the understanding of woodworking tools, their proper usage, safety precautions, and the importance of safety.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may cover more advanced woodworking techniques or project ideas.
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to use woodworking tools safely and effectively through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Extension Activity (Optional):
Explore different types of wood and their properties, discussing which types are best suited for specific woodworking projects.
Encourage students to research and share examples of famous woodworking projects or artisans known for their woodworking skills to inspire their interest in the craft.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Identify and perform common small electrical tasks, such as light fitting replacement and wiring a plug.
Execute general DIY tasks, including fixing doors, cupboards, and replacing toilet seats.
Demonstrate practical skills in small electrical jobs and DIY tasks.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on woodworking tools, proper tool usage, safety precautions, and hands-on practice. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will cover common small electrical tasks and general DIY tasks, including hands-on practice with both.
Activate:
1: Small Electrical Tasks (20 minutes)
Introduction to Small Electrical Tasks: Present common small electrical tasks that students can perform safely, such as light fitting replacement and wiring a plug. Describe their significance in home maintenance.
2: General DIY Tasks (20 minutes)
Introduction to General DIY Tasks: Introduce general DIY tasks that students can undertake, such as fixing doors, cupboards, and replacing toilet seats. Emphasise the value of DIY skills in everyday life.
3: Practical Exercises (40 minutes)
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for electrical and DIY work. Discuss key safety principles, such as checking for live wires when performing electrical tasks.
4.Discussion and Reflection:
After completing the practical exercises, have students discuss their experiences, any challenges they faced, and what they learned from the process.
Demonstrate
3. Hands-On Practice:
Divide the class into small groups and provide each group with a set of small electrical components (e.g., light fixtures, plugs) and DIY tasks (e.g., fixing a loose door hinge, replacing a cupboard handle). Instruct them to work on both small electrical and DIY tasks, applying the skills they've learned. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, highlighting the execution of common small electrical tasks, general DIY tasks, and the importance of safety.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may delve into more advanced DIY projects or home improvement topics.
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to perform small electrical and DIY tasks safely and effectively through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Extension Activity (Optional):
Encourage students to share their own DIY or home improvement experiences or stories from their families.
Explore advanced DIY projects or discuss the benefits of DIY for saving money and building practical skills.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Identify and understand common home security measures, including door chains, locks, and smoke alarms.
Learn how to install and maintain home security devices.
Gain an introduction to home support tasks, such as installing grab rails and minor disability aids.
Demonstrate practical skills in home security and support tasks.
Connector: (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on small electrical tasks, general DIY tasks, and safety guidelines. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will cover home security measures, installation and maintenance of security devices, and introduce home support tasks with hands-on practice.
Activate:
1: Home Security Measures (20 minutes)
Introduction to Home Security Measures: Present common home security measures, including door chains, locks, and smoke alarms. Discuss their importance in maintaining a secure home environment.
Con10.14 Home safety and security workseet
2: Installation and Maintenance (20 minutes)
Installation of Home Security Devices: Explain how to install and maintain home security devices. Provide step-by-step instructions for installing door chains, locks, and smoke alarms. Emphasise the significance of regular maintenance.
3: Introduction to Home Support Tasks (20 minutes)
Home Support Tasks: Introduce home support tasks, such as installing grab rails and minor disability aids, to create a safer and more accessible home environment.
4. Discussion and Reflection:
After completing the practical exercises, have students discuss their experiences, any challenges they faced, and what they learned from the process.
Demonstrate:
3: Practical Exercises (20 minutes)
Safety Guidelines: Distribute the handout with safety guidelines for home security and support tasks. Discuss key safety principles, such as ensuring the stability of installed devices.
Hands-On Practice: Provide students with home security devices and home support materials. Instruct them to practise installing and maintaining security devices (e.g., door chains, locks, smoke alarms) and installing grab rails or minor disability aids. Monitor and provide guidance as needed.
Consolidate: (5 minutes)
Summarise the main points of the lesson, highlighting the understanding of home security measures, installation and maintenance, and the introduction to home support tasks.
Preview of the Next Lesson: Provide a brief overview of the next lesson, which may delve into more advanced home improvement topics or specialised skills.
Assessment:
Assess students' understanding of safety guidelines and their ability to install and maintain home security devices and perform basic home support tasks through their active participation in hands-on activities.
Extension Activity (Optional):
Encourage students to research and present on other home security measures and home support tasks that can enhance safety and accessibility for various family members.
Explore the importance of emergency preparedness and discuss how to create a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and meeting points.
Learning objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Understand the principles of customer interaction and communication skills.
Respond to customer requests and needs effectively.
Maintain professionalism and responsibility in customer interactions.
Ensure quality service provision and fit-for-purpose work.
Review the course and demonstrate their skills in a practical assessment.
Connector (10 minutes)
Recap from Previous Lesson: Briefly recap the previous lesson on home security and support tasks. Ask students if they remember any key points from that lesson.
Lesson Overview: Explain that this lesson will focus on customer interaction and communication skills, professionalism, quality service provision, and include a practical assessment.
Activate:
1: Customer Interaction and Communication Skills (20 minutes)
Principles of Customer Interaction: Discuss the importance of effective customer interaction and communication skills. Highlight the significance of active listening and clear communication.
2: Professionalism and Quality Service (20 minutes)
Maintaining Professionalism: Explain the importance of professionalism and responsibility when dealing with customers. Discuss aspects such as punctuality, politeness, and respect.
Ensuring Quality Service: Emphasise the importance of providing quality service and work that is fit-for-purpose. Discuss the significance of meeting customer needs and expectations.
3: Practical Assessment (30 minutes)
Assessment Explanation: Briefly explain the practical assessment task. Provide details about what students will be required to do and the criteria they will be evaluated on.
Demonstrate:
1. Role-Playing Scenarios:
Divide the class into pairs or small groups. Provide each group with a customer interaction scenario and ask them to role-play it. Afterward, discuss the scenarios and gather insights on communication techniques.
3. Practical Assessment:
Conduct the practical assessment, where students are tasked with performing a home improvement or maintenance task (e.g., installing a door lock, assembling a piece of furniture). Each student or group should be observed and assessed on their customer interaction, communication, professionalism, and the quality of their work.
Consolidate (5 minutes)
Review of the Course: Summarise the key topics covered throughout the course, highlighting the skills and knowledge gained.
Practical Assessment Discussion: Discuss the practical assessment and the strengths observed in students' interactions and work quality.
personal goals for future improvement.
Assessment:
Assess students' customer interaction, communication skills, professionalism, and the quality of their work during the practical assessment using the provided rubric.
Extension Activity (Optional):
If time allows, engage in a group discussion about the importance of lifelong learning and continuous improvement in the field of home improvement and maintenance.
Encourage students to consider future career paths related to home improvement, maintenance, or customer service, and discuss potential training or education options.
Learning objective
Learners to complete assignment using information from brief.
Connect
Tutor introduction to assignment and hand out of assignment brief. Learners to read assignment briefs.
Activate
Tutor to lead discussion around assignment and confirm hand out date and hand in date. Discussion around assignment brief and structure and how it should be constructed.
Demonstrate
Learners begin assignments and work through individually at their own pace ensuring they meet key deadlines.
Consolidate
review of lesson with Q and A to check understanding.
Learning objective
Learners to complete assignment using information from brief.
Connect
Tutor introduction to assignment and hand out of assignment brief. Learners to read assignment briefs.
Activate
Tutor to lead discussion around assignment and confirm hand out date and hand in date. Discussion around assignment brief and structure and how it should be constructed.
Demonstrate
Learners begin assignments and work through individually at their own pace ensuring they meet key deadlines.
Consolidate
review of lesson with Q and A to check understanding.