About This Lesson
Subjects
- Design
- Engineering
- Technology
Time
- 60-90 minutes
Skills
- Design Thinking
- 2D Design
- Problem-solving
- 3D Design
- CAD
Learning Objective/Goal:
- Gain foundational skills in 3D design using Tinkercad.
- Navigate Tinkercad's basic tools and features effectively.
- Design and modify 3D shapes to create toy models.
- Express creativity through the design of unique toy models.
Materials Needed:
- Computers or tablets with internet access for each student.
- Tinkercad accounts for each student (free to create)
- Paper, markers, crayons, or colored pencils/pens
- Optional: Sample toys for inspiration.
- Optional: Access to a 3D printer for printing student designs
Background
- Tinkercad is an intuitive, web-based application that allows users to create 3D models easily. It provides a range of basic shapes and tools for manipulating them, making it an ideal platform for beginners, including elementary students, to learn 3D design concepts. This activity is designed to introduce students to Tinkercad's basic features and guide them through the process of creating their own toy models.
Activity
Part 1: Brainstorming:
- Begin by having students brainstorm their favorite toy or toys they enjoy playing with. Encourage them to think about what they like about them, including features such as color, design, material, shape, and functionality.
- Have students write down their ideas, noting the key features and purposes of their favorite toys and their ideas for their new toy.
Part 2: New Toy:
- Instruct students to think about creating a new toy, based on the ideas from the brainstorming session
- Have them sketch out these ideas as well and encourage creativity
- remind students of the requirements, such as no overhanging parts and size requirements (more important if models will be 3D printed)
Part 3: Tinkercad:
- Help students log in and access their accounts (set by the teacher)
- Introduce students to Tinkercad by providing an overview of its basic features and functionality through demonstrations
- Allow time for experimentation and after about 5-10 minutes remind students of the task
- show students the rubric they will be scored on (if used)
Part 4: Presentation (optional):
- Have students stand up and talk about their toy design, the process, what they changed, and why
Extra
Tips for Students:
- Always save your work! (or check to make sure it has autosave)
- Experiment with different shapes and sizes to bring your toy design to life.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help if you encounter difficulties.
Tips for Teachers:
- Be aware of common mistakes students make such as having unsupported parts or making something too thin
- Students should be encouraged to follow along with the demonstrations
- This lesson may need to be broken into multiple sessions
Extensions:
- Print 3D models of student designs using a 3D printer.
- Have students write descriptions or stories about their toy designs.
- Explore advanced features of Tinkercad or other 3D design software such as Fusion360 for more challenging projects.
References:
