To see descriptions of all available curriculum by grade level, click here. To download a PDF of all available units, click here.

TinkerCAD: Introduction to 3D Printing

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Lesson Number:
1
Description:

This lesson is designed to span 5 days with 50-minute sections. After the introduction day, each day the students work toward mastery on the TinkerCAD tutorial online to learn how to create printable 3D models. At the end of the 4 days the students will...

Energy Content:
Next Generation Manufacturing
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will complete several computer aligned design tutorials, lessons, and one project to fully understand and implement unique 3D printed designs.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Multiple Learning Styles,
Project-Based Learning,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
Math: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division,
Math: Geometry
Estimated Activity Length:
4 hours

Adrift in a Sea of Plastic Unit Plan

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Description:

In this unit students will investigate the phenomena of plastic trash islands floating in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The students will work to solve the problem of plastic trash islands through the engineering and design process. Using 3D printers,...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing,
Solar Photovoltaic
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
·       Students will design 3D models using Tinkercad software.·       Students will define the problem of plastic trash islands.·       Students will describe possible solutions to the problem of plastic trash islands.·       Students will research the plastic trash problem and create google slideshows the problem and how we might fix it.·       Students will investigate different ways to build structures that both float and hold weight.·       Students will build a model of a device that could collect plastic from the ocean.·       Students will test the models they build.·       Students will communicate their results from scientific inquiry to identify factors that are important to optimizing the design of the plastic collecting device.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Culturally Sustaining,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Informational Text,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
Math: Geometry,
Math: Graphing & Representation
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours

The Problem of Plastic Trash Islands

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Lesson Number:
2
Description:

This lesson is designed for 3 days, 50-minute sessions. The students will watch videos and take 2 column notes to guide independent research. The students will examine different solutions that are already being tried and experimental solutions that have...

Energy Content:
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will read and watch various informational texts and resources and take structured notes to support comprehension.Students will conduct independent research on a current eventStudents will create a google slide show or other presentation and present their findings and ideas.Students will practice speaking and listening skills.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Culturally Sustaining,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Informational Text,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing
Estimated Activity Length:
2 hours

Engineering 101

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Lesson Number:
3
Description:

This lesson is designed for 3, 50-minute sessions. The students will engage in multiple mini-engineering challenges to develop their understanding of structures and how to build models. The students will also learn to use the 3D pens to create a 3D object...

Energy Content:
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
·       Students will understand some basics of engineering.·       Students will become familiar with 3D pens and how to use them.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Estimated Activity Length:
2 hours

Design and Engineer Solutions

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Lesson Number:
4
Description:

This lesson is designed to span 9 days with 50-minute sessions. The students will use a Design and Engineering Journal to guide them in the design and engineering process. In small groups they will use the research from lesson 2 to formulate solutions to...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing,
Solar Photovoltaic
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will take part in the engineering design process.Students will use problem solving skills to make changes to designs.Students will use speaking and listening skills to give presentations and listen to others give their presentation.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Culturally Sustaining,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
Math: Geometry,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
7 hours
Earth Sun

Saving Lives with Solar Ovens

Grades:
3-5
Unit:
Cooking with the Sun and Solar Ovens
Lesson Number:
4
Description:

Students will be introduced to Solar Cookers International. Students will learn about different solar cooker designs and how they function. Students will learn the pros and cons on the use of solar ovens in developing countries. Students will gain an...

Energy Content:
Solar Thermal
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will learn about different solar cooker designs and how they function. Students will learn the customs, jobs, food and clothing of people in different countries of Africa.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Empathetic Engineering,
Engineering Design,
Multiple Learning Styles,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Research-Secondary,
Social-Emotional Learning,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Lisa Morgan
Relevant NGSS PE:
3-ESS2-1,
3-ESS2-2,
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
4-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Informational Text,
ELA: Reading: Literature,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
Social Sciences: Multicultural Studies
Estimated Activity Length:
50 min
Wadsworth OH thumbnail

Let's Build Sun Ovens

Grades:
3-5
Unit:
Cooking with the Sun and Solar Ovens
Lesson Number:
9
Description:

The purpose of this lesson is to introduce the students to three different styles of inexpensive solar ovens. Students will work together to build a File Box oven, an auto shade/bucket oven and a “Copenhagen” style oven. Students will follow written...

Energy Content:
Solar Thermal,
Thermal Energy (Heat)
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will follow written directions and use what they have learned about necessary components of a solar oven to build three different ovens in small groups.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Project-Based Learning
Author:
Lisa Morgan
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3
Estimated Activity Length:
3 hours
Wadsworth OH thumbnail

Let’s Get Cooking!

Grades:
4-5
Unit:
Cooking with the Sun and Solar Ovens
Lesson Number:
10
Description:

The purpose of this lesson is to provide students with a hands-on experience using the sun to cook cornbread or cookies. Students will also learn to use an infrared thermometer. There is also an optional extension for the class or individual students to...

Energy Content:
Solar Thermal,
Thermal Energy (Heat)
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
At the end of this lesson students will be able to: • Follow and prepare a recipe for cookies. • Learn to take and record oven temperature every 30 minutes using an infrared thermometer. • Evaluate the three ovens with a pros and cons list for each one after cooking. • Write one or two of their own questions. • Make suggestions for design changes.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Author:
Lisa Morgan
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
5-PS1-3,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3,
MS-ETS1-4
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Writing,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
3 hours
Wadsworth OH thumbnail

Build the Ultimate Solar Oven

Grades:
3-5
Unit:
Cooking with the Sun and Solar Ovens
Lesson Number:
11
Description:

The purpose of this lesson is to take everything the students have learned and experienced up to this point and use it to build their own Ultimate Solar Oven using items found at school, home, the Dollar store or home improvement store for under 5 dollars...

Energy Content:
Materials Science,
Solar Thermal,
Thermal Energy (Heat)
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-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
At the end of this lesson students will be able to: plan, sketch, design and build a new solar oven. In addition, students will be able to cook food with their solar oven.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Author:
Lisa Morgan
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3,
MS-ETS1-4
Other Subjects Covered:
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours
Solar Mini House

Mini Solar Houses Unit

Grades:
4-6
Unit:
Mini Solar Houses
Description:

In Lesson 1, the lesson focuses on understanding how the angle and orientation affect the amount of energy that is generated through use of a solar cell. Paper azimuth finders, Keva Planks, and multimeters will be used in order for students to draw...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Solar Photovoltaic
+
-
More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
1. Students will understand how to use an Azimuth finder to determine the direction and altitude that solar modules will face. 2. Students will learn how to describe why a solar module is pitched at a particular angle. 3. Students will understand how to measure the voltage and current for an electrical energy source. 4. Students will learn how to build a circuit that will light a light bulb with a switch and without a switch. 5. Students will understand that the electricity flows through a circuit from an energy source to a load. 6. Students will understand the difference between open and closed circuits. 7. Students will understand the similarities and differences between solar cells and batteries as an energy source. 8. Students will understand how electricity flows through a circuit (from energy sources to loads) with more than one source and more than one load. 9. Students will understand how to build series and parallel circuit and the characteristics of each. 10. Students will learn to power both a light and a fan. 11. Students will learn how to find a fault in a circuit. 12. Students will understand that the electricity flows through a circuit from an energy source to a load. 13. Students will understand the difference between open and closed circuits. 14. Students will identify the causes and solutions to various complications that arise in the construction of circuits. 15. Students will use the design process to create a roof to hold an adequate number of solar modules to power an LED and a fan. 16. Students will understand how to make a geometric net (a 2D drawing that when folded creates a 3D shape) for designing a roof.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Beverly Satterwhite
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Writing,
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
8 hours

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