Students learn about Computer-Aided Design software and how it is used by designers to save time and resources. Students work through an initial CAD tutorial using Tinkercad.
Students continue using Tinkercad to engage in a redesign of classroom furniture. They learn about the importance of 2D sketching and create their own sketches before working through the next Tinkercad tutorial.
Students are introduced to the concepts of dual or multi-function designs, then use Tinkercad to create an eco-friendly redesign of an object of their choosing.
Students learn about blueprints and floor plans and the importance of thinking through and sketching a design before creating it.
Students learn about biomimicry and use the concept of biomimicry to brainstorm and design ideas inspired by animals.
Students apply what they’ve learned about biomimicry in design to create a textile and safety design inspired by animals.
Students learn the basics of animation and optical illusions before designing their own thaumatrope. Then, students begin some simple tutorials using an animation program.
Students continue to use the animation program as they learn about the concept of “squash and stretch.” Students learn what a Public Service Announcement is and begin to plan their topic.
Students learn about and create an initial storyboard. Then, students learn how animators use color and decoration to convey emotions.
Students complete their PSA animation projects and present them to the class.
Students learn about circuits and how electrical energy moves through a system to turn on lights.
Students learn that environmental psychologists investigate how people respond to the natural and designed world. Students engage in a series of games and activities to consider the purpose of form and function in design.
Students learn about how signals are used in society to keep people safe. Then, students design their own safety signals.
