The type of combination locks that children will most likely handle is the dial lock. A dial lock includes a round dial with the numbers 1 through 39 indicated in a series of hash marks encompassing the circumference. Beginning as young as sixth grade, children learn use three successive numbers on a dial combination lock so that they can open their lockers.
Instructions
1. Assign each child her own lock and give her the three numbers that are needed to open the lock. Write the locker number and its coordinating lock combination numbers on a sheet of paper and give it to your student. Also keep a log of all locker numbers and locks for your personal reference. Dial locks can only be opened when all three numbers are indicated on the dial in this exact order. For example, if the combination for a lock is 38, 23, and 15, each of these numbers must be lined up to the indicator arrow of that lock in this order for the lock to open; you can not switch the numbers around freely. The indicator arrow is located in the 12 o'clock position on the dial.
2. Demonstrate the lock opening sequence for each child individually. Begin by turning the dial to the right several times to refresh the lock. The directional sequence for opening dial locks is right, left, and right again. The above numbers are being used for instructional guiding purposes. Turn the dial to the right. Find the hash mark that corresponds with the number 38 and line it up with the indicator arrow. Turn your dial to the left and pass the number 23 one time. Continue turning to the left to pass your first number (38). As you come to the number 23 a second time, align its hash mark with the indicator arrow. Turn the dial back to the right. Find and land on the number 15 without passing it. The lock should open.
3. Reiterate the importance of following this sequence exactly. Make sure your student understands that the second number is passed over one time during the unlocking sequence; the first and third numbers are not. Any variation in the sequence will block the lock from opening.
4. Allow each student to try the combination for his new locker. Observe students as they proceed to make sure each can open his locker several times in a row before having him place his belongings into the locker.
Tags: indicator arrow, arrow Turn, combination lock, dial lock, dial right, each child
