Getting Started with Kinetic Sculpture

New year, new projects. The students have returned and it is time to get building. Sixth Grade starts off by building automata, or kinetic sculptures. In the past, students have jumped in feet first without much guidance. After trying that for two years, I decided it might be time to add (just a little) more structure to their process. Using the PDF found here (via Exploratorium), the students began with a guided rough draft, pointing out areas they may have trouble with their final draft.

These drafts help the students imagine the possibilities for their final draft. I’m looking forward to seeing what our students come up with as well as watching them solving the challenges that will come up!

Four traits necessary for design thinking

via Don Buckley at NYSAIS STEAMCamp:

1: Observe. Watch for surprising or interesting stimuli.

• Take notes, watch how people interact with physical objects (iPhone, laptop or books)

2: Question. Ask questions that impose / remove constraints.

• How would you drive a car if steering wheels didn’t exist? How could you build your project to keep it under two pounds?

3: Network. Interact with people from various backgrounds.

• Try eating lunch with a different classmate. Learning about others leads to a greater empathy; a key component to design thinking.

4: Experiment. Complicate your life by trying new things

• Try taking a new route home, or try cooking a new meal. Adding variety to your life can change your view and open your eyes to new inspirations