Lesson Plan
Course Title
Electronics
Session Title
Hand Tools
Performance Objectives
Upon completion of this assignment, the student will be able to identify basic hand tools and
list maintenance procedures for tools. The student should be able to clean and lubricate pliers
and adjust wire strippers. This knowledge will be evidenced by correctly performing the
procedures outlined on the lab activity sheets and by scoring 85 percent on the exams.
Specific Objectives
 Identify basic hand tools
 Match tools to their uses
 List factors to consider when selecting tools
 List maintenance procedures for tools
 Demonstrate the ability to:
o clean and lubricate pliers and
o adjust wire strippers.
Preparation
TEKS Correlations
This lesson, as published, correlates to the following TEKS. Any changes/alterations to the
activities may result in the elimination of any or all of the TEKS listed.
Electronics

130.368 (c)
o (1) The student demonstrates the skills necessary for success in the workplace.
The student is expected to:
(C) demonstrate the principles of teamwork related to engineering and
technology; and
(G) demonstrate respect for diversity in the workplace.

130.368 (c)
o (2) The student participates in team projects in various roles. The student is
expected to:
(B) solve problems as part of a team;
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(C) demonstrate proper attitudes as a team leader; and
(D) demonstrate proper attitudes as a team member.

130.368 (c)
o (3) The student develops skills for managing a project. The student is
expected to:
(B) complete work according to established criteria; and
(C) participate in the organization and operation of a real or simulated
engineering project.

130.368 (c)
o (4) The student practices safe and proper work habits. The student is
expected to:
(A) master relevant safety tests;
(B) follow safety guidelines as described in various manuals, instructions,
and regulations;
(C) identify and classify hazardous materials and wastes according to
Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations and industry
standards;
(D) dispose of hazardous materials and wastes appropriately;
(E) perform maintenance on selected tools, equipment, and machines;
(F) handle and store tools and materials correctly; and
(G) describe the results of negligent or improper maintenance.

130.368 (c)
o (8) The student learns the function and application of the tools, equipment, and
materials used in electronics through project-based assignments. The student is
expected to:
(A) safely use tools and laboratory equipment to construct and repair
circuits; and
(B) use precision measuring instruments to analyze circuits and prototypes.
Interdisciplinary Correlations
English Language Arts and Reading, English II

110.32 (b)
o (1) Reading/Vocabulary Development. Students understand new vocabulary and
use it when reading and writing.
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Occupational Correlation (O*Net – www.onetonline.org)
Job Title
Electronics Engineering Technicians
O*Net Number
17-3023.01
Similar Job Titles
Electronics Technician, Engineering Technician, Electronics Engineering Technician, Test
Technician, Technician, Refurbish Technician (Refurb Tech), Electrical Technician, Electronics
Test Technician, Engineering Aide, Failure Analysis Technician (FA Technician)
Tasks
 Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for
assembling electronics units, and applying knowledge of electronic theory and
components.
 Test electronics units using standard test equipment and analyze results to evaluate
performance and determine need for adjustment.
 Perform preventative maintenance or calibration of equipment or systems.
 Assemble, test, or maintain circuitry or electronic components according to engineering
instructions, technical manuals, or knowledge of electronics, using hand or power tools.
 Adjust or replace defective or improperly functioning circuitry or electronics
components, using hand tools or soldering iron.
 Write reports or record data on testing techniques, laboratory equipment, or
specifications to assist engineers.
 Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field
representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.
 Maintain system logs or manuals to document testing or operation of equipment.
 Provide user applications or engineering support or recommendations for new or
existing equipment with regard to installation, upgrades, or enhancements.
 Provide customer support and education working with users to identify needs,
determine sources of problems, or to provide information on product use.
Soft Skills
 Dependability
 Cooperation
 Attention to Detail
 Initiative
 Integrity
 Adaptability
 Flexibility
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References
 Buchla, D., & Floyd, T. (2005). The science of Electronics DC/AC (chapter 4). Upper Saddle
River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
 Floyd, T. (1993). Principles of electric circuits: Electron flow version, Don Mills, Ontario:
Macmillan Publishing Co.
 Robertson, L. (1980). Basics Electronics I. Stillwater, OK: Mid-American Vocational
Curriculum Consortium, Inc.
Instructional Aids
 Hand Tools for Electronic Technicians slide presentation and notes
 Hand Tools Lab #1 - Clean and Lubricate Pliers handout
 Hand Tools Lab #2 - Adjust Wire Strippers handout
 Hand Tools Exam I
 Hand Tools Exam I Answer Key
 Hand Tools Exam II
 Hand Tools Exam II Answer Key
Materials Needed
 Pencil and paper
 Assortment of tools
 Cleaning material
 Lubricant
Equipment Needed
 Computer and software
 Projector and screen
 Whiteboard
 Breadboards and leads
 Power supplies
 Multimeters
 Calculator
Learner Preparation
The teacher may want to have students preview the Hand Tools for Electronic Technicians slide
presentation and take notes on the material.
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Introduction
Introduction (LSI Quadrant I)
Say
Electronic technicians and people with related occupations need to know the tools of
their trade.
Ask
Do you know all the tools of the trade for people working in the electronics field?
Say
Proper maintenance and use of each tool will prolong its life and save the technician some
money if they have to replace lost or damaged tools. Let’s see what the tools of the trade are.
Outline
Instructors can use the slide presentation, notes, and handouts in conjunction with the
following outline.
Outline (LSI Quadrant II)
Teacher Notes
I. Overview
A. Tool hazards
B. Tool use responsibilities
Slides 1-4
The teacher will begin the
Hand Tools for Electronic
Technicians slide
presentation.
II. Types of tools and their uses
A. Pliers
 Long nose pliers
 Diagonal side cutting pliers
B. Screwdrivers
 Lineman’s side cutting pliers
 Combination slip joint pliers
 Flat head screwdriver
 Phillips head screwdriver
C. Saws
 Hacksaw
 Keyhole saw
D. 6-in-1 tool
E. Adjustable wire strippers
Slides 5-14
The teacher discusses tools
and their uses from the slide
presentation. Make sure to
review the tools and their
uses that are covered in
Exam I and Exam II.
Examples used are typical for
a lab. Your lab may or may
not have these specific tools.
You may substitute tools you
have for tools in the
presentation that your lab
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F. Wrenches
 Crescent wrench
 Hex wrench
 Socket wrench
G. Claw hammer
H. Nut driver
I. Wire gauge
J. Hemostat clamps
K. Drill and drill bits
L. Ball peen hammer
M. Flat files
N. Punches
does not have.
III. Digital multimeter
A. Uses and safety
B. Tests
 Voltage test
 Resistance test
 Current test
Slides 15-18
The teacher should search
the Internet and other
resources for information on
multimeter safety.
IV. Factors to consider when selecting tools
A. Size
B. Quality
C. Design
D. Specifications
Slide 19
The teacher discusses factors
to consider when selecting
tools.
V. Tool maintenance and safety
A. Screwdrivers
B. Pliers
C. Adjustable wrenches
D. All tools
Slides 20-21
VI. Summary
Slide 22
VII. Teacher demonstrations
A. Clean and adjust tools
B. Lubricate tools
The teacher will distribute
Hand Tools Lab #1 handout
and Hand Tools Lab #2
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C. Inspect tools
D. Discard malfunctioned tools
handout to each student. The
teacher will demonstrate
how to clean and lubricate
pliers (Lab #1) and adjust
wire strippers (Lab #2).
The students will replicate
the activities in Lab #1 and
Lab #2 handouts.
Application
Guided Practice (LSI Quadrant III)
The students will observe, ask questions, and analyze the demonstration to be presented by the
teacher. The teacher will use materials as listed in the lab activities to instruct students how to
maintain hand tools.
Independent Practice (LSI Quadrant III)
The students will replicate the lab activities.
Summary
Review (LSI Quadrants I and IV)
 Ask (as you hold up various tools)
What is the name and function of this tool?
 Ask
What are four factors that need to be considered when selecting a tool?
 Ask
What is the maintenance procedure for each of the following tools?
 Screwdrivers
 Pliers
 Adjustable wrenches
 All tools
Evaluation
Informal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III)
The teacher will monitor each student or small group as they individually work to complete the
Lab #1 and Lab #2 assignments.
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Formal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III, IV)
1. The students will be assessed by participation in and completion of the lab activities.
2. The students will be assessed by taking the hand tools exams.
Extension
Extension/Enrichment (LSI Quadrant IV)
In small groups, students may discuss the following topics.
 Knowing electricians' tools and their uses is a vital part of the industry and skills
development.
 Thinking through a problem to arrive at the answer and the persistency to work past
your frustrations tempers your character.
 There are points in the lab experience where a student may use leadership skills.
Leading or following creates a sense of accomplishment that adds to the character of
those students involved. Cognitive and leadership skills or development go hand and
hand in surviving life’s road.
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Name_________________________________Class:__________Date:___/___/___
Hand Tools
Lab #1 – Clean and Lubricate Pliers
Equipment and Materials

Pliers

Solvent

Oil

Solvent tray or equivalent
Procedure:
1. Lay pliers in tray
2. Pour solvent into tray until pliers are submersed
Note: If pliers have cushion grips, immerse only the head.
3. Open and close pliers several times while submersed
4. Let pliers set for three to four minutes in the solvent
5. Remove from solvent
6. Open and close rapidly until pliers work freely
Note: If pliers do not work freely, repeat Steps 1 through 6.
7. Wipe residue from pliers joint with a cloth or paper towel
8. Apply two or three drops of oil to joints of the pliers
9. Work the pliers until the oil has penetrated the joint
10. Wipe excess oil from pliers
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Name_________________________________Class:__________Date:___/___/___
Hand Tools
Lab #2 – Adjust Wire Strippers
Equipment and Materials

Adjustable wire strippers

Variety of solid insulated conductors

Screwdriver or nut driver to fit adjustment screw
Procedure
1. Loosen adjustment screw (Figure 1)
2. Insert conductor into stripping slot
3. Close jaws until you feel that you have reached the conductor
4. Open jaws slightly
5. Slide adjustment screw down to its setting position (Figure 2)
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Hand Tools
Lab #2 – Adjust Wire Strippers (continued)
6. Strip off approximately 3/8-inch of insulation
7. Check conductor for ring or nick (Figure 3)
Note: If nicks occurred, loosen adjustment screw, readjust, and test again until insulation is
removed without conductor damage.
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Name_________________________________Class:__________Date:___/___/___
Hand Tools
Exam 1
I.
II.
Match the term to the correct definition
1. _____Hacksaw
A Gripping, holding, or turning a range of small to
medium size nuts and bolts
2. _____Hex and Allen
wrench
B Cutting wire and component leads;
stripping insulation from wire
3. _____Keyhole saw
C Tightening or loosening socket cap
screws; tightening or loosening set screws
4. _____Diagonal cutting
pliers
D Cutting chassis metal; cutting bolts or
metal parts
5. _____Nut driver
E Cutting openings in drywall for electrical outlets
Match the hand tool with its description
6. _____Lineman’s side
cutting pliers
A Loosening small to medium size nuts and
bolts: holding and turning
7. _____Long nose pliers
B Removing or tightening screws or bolts
(flat head or Phillips head)
8. _____Combination slip
joint pliers
C Crimp, cut, strip, shear, thread, and
length gauges for stripping
9. _____6-in-1 tool
D Holding components; heat sink;
shaping and forming small conductors
10. _____Screwdriver
E Cutting heavier conductors and cables;
cutting small screws: forming large
conductors
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Hand Tools
Exam 1 Answer Key
I.
II.
Match the term to the correct definition
1. Hacksaw
D
A Gripping, holding, or turning a range of small to
medium size nuts and bolts
2. Hex and Allen
wrench
C
B Cutting wire and component leads;
stripping insulation from wire
3. Keyhole saw
E
C Tightening or loosening socket cap
screws; tightening or loosening set screws
4. Diagonal cutting
pliers
B
D Cutting chassis metal; cutting bolts or
metal parts
5. Nut driver
A
E Cutting openings in drywall for electrical outlets
Match the hand tool with its description
6. Lineman’s side
cutting pliers
E
A Loosening small to medium size nuts and
bolts: holding and turning
7. Long nose pliers
D
B Removing or tightening screws or bolts
(flat head or Phillips head)
8. Combination slip
joint pliers
A
C Crimp, cut, strip, shear, thread, and
length gauges for stripping
9. 6-in-1 tool
C
D Holding components; heat sink;
shaping and forming small conductors
10. Screwdriver
B
E Cutting heavier conductors and cables;
cutting small screws: forming large
conductors
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Name_________________________________Class:__________Date:___/___/___
Hand Tools
Exam 2
Note: Please write responses on this sheet.
1. List three factors that should be considered when selecting tools. (2pts each)
1. ______________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________
2. List maintenance procedures for the following tools: (2pts each)
A. Screwdrivers
1. _____________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________
B. Pliers
1. _____________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________
4. ______________________________________________________
C. Adjustable wrenches _________________________________________
D. All tools ____________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
3. Identify the hand tools labeled and displayed by the teacher (spelling counts).
A. __________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. __________________________________________
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Name_________________________________Class:__________Date:___/___/___
Hand Tools
Exam 2 (continued)
F. __________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. __________________________________________
J. __________________________________________
K. __________________________________________
L. __________________________________________
M. __________________________________________
N. __________________________________________
O. __________________________________________
P. __________________________________________
Q. __________________________________________
R. __________________________________________
S. __________________________________________
T. __________________________________________
U. __________________________________________
V. __________________________________________
W. __________________________________________
X. __________________________________________
Y. __________________________________________
Z. __________________________________________
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Hand Tools
Exam 2 Answer Key
NOTE: Please write responses on this sheet.
1. List three factors that should be considered when selecting tools. (2pts each)
Teacher’s Note
Student may provide any three of the following:
1. Tool size should be matched to the work most frequently encountered
2. Purchasing quality tools is less expensive in the long run
3. Tools should be specifically designed for electronic use whenever possible:
o Should have insulation on handles of pliers
o Should have insulation on handles of screwdrivers
4. Know the specifications before purchasing a tool
2. List maintenance procedures for the following tools. (2pts each)
A. Screwdrivers
1. Regrind worn or damaged flat blade screwdrivers
2. Discard damaged Phillips screwdrivers
B. Pliers
1. Keep pliers clean and rust free
2. Keep cutting edges sharp and smooth
3. Keep pliers working freely
4. Repair or replace damaged handle insulation
C. Adjustable wrenches- Keep worm gears clean and lubricated
D. All tools- Identify tools by labeling with electric vibrator pen or scratch awl
3. Identify the hand tools labeled and displayed by the teacher (spelling counts).
Teacher’s Note
The following tools are the recommended tools and sequence. Add or delete hand tools
according to what is available in the shop.
A. Long nose pliers
B. Diagonal cutting pliers
C. Linesman’s side cutting pliers
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Hand Tools
Exam 2 Answer Key (continued)
D. Combination slip joint pliers
E. Flat blade (slot head) screwdriver
F. Phillips head (cross point) screwdriver
G. Hacksaw
H. Keyhole saw
I. Adjustable wire strippers
J. 6-in-1 tool
K. Crescent wrench (adjustable)
L. Hex or Allen wrenches
M. Nut driver
N. Drill and drill bits
O. Ball peen hammer
P. Flat file
Q. Half round file
R. Hemostat clamp
S. Wire gauge
T. Precision files
U. Center punch
V. Square hole punch
W. Round hole punch
X. Socket wrench
Y. Claw hammer
Z. Multimeter
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