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Lesson 9: Get to Know Gil

Name(s) of students(s):

Age and grade level:

Goal or objective from IEP connected to lesson:

After completion of the lesson, the student will be able to:

  • List a minimum of five tools a basic toolbox should include.
  • State how much it would cost to buy the tools needed for a basic tool box for home repairs.
  • Identify a minimum of four benefits for making his own home repairs.

Materials needed: Note taking device, Internet access, and personal resource file

Discussion: If Gil Can Do it, So Can You

“As an independent homemaker you will be responsible for all of the tasks associated with running your home, from shopping for groceries to making repairs. A visual impairment does not prevent you from keeping your living space organized and safe. If you have a light bulb that is out or a leak in your sink, you can equip yourself with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to make the repairs yourself. Hiring a repair person to make these kinds of basic fixes is an option, but it can get expensive very quickly. During the next set of activities, you will learn about a gentleman with a visual impairment named Gil who unclogs drains, installs celling fans, and takes care of his home on his own.”

Activity 1: DIY

  1. Read Gil’s Guide to Home Repairs.
  2. Learn more about Gil by reading Meet Gil Johnson.
  3. Read Your Tool Box: The Right Tool for the Right Job and consider the following questions:
  • What stores could you go to purchase tools for a tool box?
  • Will you need tools designed specifically for people with visual impairments to make simple home repairs, or can you use standard tools?
  • Research how much it would cost to put together a basic tool box.
  1. Read Unclogging Stopped Drains. Call a local plumbing company. Ask them how much they would charge to unclog a drain in your tub, or ask for their hourly rate.
  2. Does the cost motivate you to want to learn to do it yourself?

Progress notes:

 

Goal of next lesson: