3D Modeling with 5th Graders: Geometry Robots

I worked with teachers at a local elementary school to help implement 3D printing into their Art curriculum.  We worked with four 5th grade classes on this "Geometry Robots" project.  The Art teacher introduced the project in Art class and students sketched plans for constructing a robot out of geometric shapes.  Students were tasked to think about the logistics of construction in 3D.

I then visited the students in their Technology class and taught them how to use the program TinkerCad.  Using their sketches as a guide, they build their robots from geometric shapes and other components.  Students learned how to move, rotate, resize, and combine their shapes.  They were encouraged to use the shapes creatively in their designs.  Students worked on these projects over two class periods in the computer lab.

Once student projects were complete, I worked with the teachers to show them how to print the files on their 3D printer.  However, this project could easily be implement in a school that does not have a 3D printer by simply skipping this step. The teacher can even take screen shots of all the students designs and print them as photos for display in the school.

For the culmination of this project, the Art teacher worked with the students to construct recycled material sculptures based on their robots.  Students can compare and contrast the initial sketch, 3D print, and sculpture.