Part of Lesson Plan: Planer Operation and Safety

Activity Overview / Details

Prepare two samples of cutting boards. First sample should be glued together but has not yet been planed smooth. Second sample has been planed on both sides, creating an even and smooth surface.

Question; Without using a planer, how could you make the surface smooth and flat?                                     

Take class out to lab and introduce the planer.

Identify major parts: power switch, table, table adjustment wheel, roller pressure adjustment and scale.

Lower table, using a flashlight have students inspect the feed rollers and cutter head.

Question: Does the planer cut the upper or lower surface of the wood?  

Pass out a small piece of unplaned wood for students to visualize and feel the texture.

Using a Sharpie, have students write their name onto the board.

Set table height to the thickness of a sample of wood to be planed.

Plane a board on both sides only to show the change in the wood texture and smoothness.

Students will be watching the board, as it comes out for their "autograph"   

Pass out the planed board for student to inspect and compare.