How Beth, Courtney and Reggie Did It
Grade: K-12th
Timing: Five 35-minute class periods
Subjects: engineering and design, business, art; English, 21st century skills
Materials: Batteries, LEDs, wire, aluminum foil, paperclips, flexible foam, tissue paper, foam board, paper and pencils, art supplies, construction paper, poster board, hot glue, scissors, tape, filament, pens, safety pins, various recyclables, computers
Project Steps: Beth, Courtney and Reggie implement this project in five stages following an initial one hour preparation. The stages include: Brief and Research, Research and Consumer Interviews, Idea Development and Selection,Prototyping, and Production.
How You Can Do It
Grade: K-12th
Timing: 1-4 weeks (divided in the five project steps in a way that compliments your school bell schedule)
Subjects: engineering and design, business, art, English, 21st century skills, social studies
Materials: The electronic supplies such as LEDs, wire, filament, and batteries etc. are recommended, however, you can use any art and construction materials that are available and familiar to you and your students. Additional materials can include cardboard, tape, and recycled materials etc. Optional tools can also enhance this project such as a 3D printer or laser cutter.
Project Steps: Depending on your students’ familiarity with the design process, engineering, and marketing, they may need additional time or instruction to support one or more of the project steps. Additionally, your students may be interested in designing a product for a different purpose or audience rather than parents/guardians at the school.