Automotive General Services Technician Model

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Lesson Plan Industry Sector
Transportation

Lesson Plan Originally Created By: Russell Granger

**Charging System Fundamentals (updated) by Russell Granger

Part of Unit: Engine Systems

Lesson Plan Overview / Details

Introduce students to the operational theory and practical service techniques of the automotive charging system. Students will be introduced to the specialized diagnostic and service equipment required to perform these tasks. Students will also understand how to interpret customer complaints as they relate to this system.

Lesson Time

3 Class Periods
3 Hours

Objectives and Goals

  • Understand charging system theory and operation.
  • Identify, describe, and competently use specialized tools and equipment used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in a circuit.
  • Describe industry standards for the diagnostics and repair of the starting and charging systems.
  • Demonstrate understanding of professional practices and principles in performing the diagnostics and repair of the starting system.
  • Demonstrate safe shop work habits and practices when performing the diagnostics and repair of the starting system.
  • Access online database to find vehicle/alternator/charging system specifications.

Activities in this Lesson

  • Share Dead Battery/battery Charger Stories - Hooks / Set

    Students share their personal experiences with dead batteries, what it took to charge the battery, and how long it took to charge using any type of electronic device. Students have plenty of personal experience with charging systems, all of which operate pretty much alike. 

  • PowerPoint - Lecture

    Use the charging system PowerPoint to introduce alternator theory and service. Each laboratory group will follow along the lecture with an alternator core/rebuildable alternator for use in identifying the components shown during lecture in the PowerPoint. I will clarify and reinforce key terms and topics during lecture through use of the student's alternator cores.

  • Charging System Lab Demo - Demo / Modeling

    I will demonstrate how to complete the Charging System Worksheet using the shop demonstration vehicle. I will intruduce the DMM (Digital Multi-Meter) and the VAT-40 (Voltage-Ampereage Tester) and how they are connected and used. Students will be taken through the entire lab worksheet before being asked to perform the lab themselves. Students will wear safety glasses and cover-alls at all times while in the shop area.  

  • Charging System Lab - Lab / Shop

    Students will work in groups of four to perform pages 10-13 of the Starting & Charging Laboratory assignment. Students inspect  battery condition, measure/calculate specific gravity, inspect the alternator belt, measure alternator output with and without load, and perform a voltage drop test. Students will observe safe shop practices at all times while demonstrating competency in using the DMM and VAT-40. Students are continually monitored to insure they are wearing their safety glasses and cover-alls while maintaining safe shop practices at all times while in the shop area. 

  • Activity #5 - Closure

    All students will clean up the shop area 20 minutes before the end of class and, upon completion of the cleanup, assemble back in the classroom area. I will display assorted google.com/chargingsystem/photos in sequence and have students identify the different charging system types and their components. I will do this until the end of class.  

Assessment

Assessment Types:
Projects, Demonstrations, Interviews, Teacher-Made Test, Observations,

I will walk around the class monitoring the student’s participation and answer any questions that arise. During the lab exercise I will ensure that the students wear their safety glasses and always practice shop safety. I will assist students in the lab if needed and give constructive feedback when necessary. Students will turn in their completed Charging Worksheet, explain their results, and make recommendations for repair, if any.