The Science and Art of Sharpening Edged Cutting Tools Used in the Construction of Acoustic Guitars

These learning resources, made available by the STEM Guitar Project, are all part of a modular learning activity (MLA) on sharpening edged cutting tools used in the construction of acoustic guitars. The goals of this MLA is to "guide the student to an understanding of the basic, physical science concepts underlying the sharpening of edged cutting tools; to instruct the student in safe and proper sharpening technique, widely accepted as general practice and 'good form'; and, to guide the student toward successful fulfillment of the 'behavioral objectives'." The learning objectives for this activity are:

1. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, the concept of material hardness.
2. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, the related concepts of force and pressure.
3. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, how the concept of hardness relates to sharpening edged cutting tools.
4. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, how the concepts of hardness and pressure relate to the ability of an edged cutting tool to efficiently cut, shape, and sculpt wood.
5. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, the differences between common, sharpening-stone grits.
6. Student will be able to explain, in simple terms, the basic steps and techniques involved in sharpening a common, beveled-edge chisel.
7. Student will be able to list and explain the safety hazards associated with the sharpening of edged cutting tools.
8. Student will be able to list and explain the safety precautions, PPE, and on-hand first aid supplies relevant to the sharpening of edged cutting tools.
9. Student will be able to SAFELY demonstrate good, beginner-level technique in the sharpening of a beveled-edge chisel.
10. Student will be able to SAFELY demonstrate the good sharpness of the freshly sharpened, beveled-edge chisel, using the paper cutting method explained and illustrated in this lesson.

This MLA is provided in both .pdf and .docx formats and includes into the following sections: Goals, Student Learning Objectives, Standards, Sources, Materials, Safety Concerns, Activity, and more. An associated PowerPoint presentation is also included.