Can You Design A Personal Reflection Statue?

Objective:

Students will explore self-identity and creativity by designing a personal reflection statue that represents themselves. Using Tinkercad and a Robo E4 3D printer, students will develop skills in 3D design, critical thinking, and presentation.

Materials List:

• Computers or tablets with internet access
• Tinkercad (free online 3D design software)
• Robo E4 3D printer
• PLA filament (various colors)
• Design and reflection worksheet
• Rulers and graph paper (optional for sketching designs)

Lesson Instruction Steps:

Introduction:

• Begin with a discussion about self-identity and personal reflection.
• Explain the project: each student will design a statue that represents who they are, which will be printed using a 3D printer.

Design:

• Introduce Tinkercad and give a brief tutorial on basic functions.
• Hand out the design and reflection worksheets.
• Allow students to brainstorm and sketch their ideas on graph paper and use the worksheet for guidance.
• Have students create their 3D designs in Tinkercad, ensuring they consider the 3D printing limitations.
• Make sure their designs are suitable for 3D printing (no parts that are too thin or ensure that raised parts have proper supports).

Production:

• As students finish their designs, have them queue up their files for printing on the Robo E4 3D printer.
• While waiting for their prints, students can work on the reflection section of their worksheet.

Presentation and Reflection:

• Once the statues are printed, allow students to present their designs to the class.
• Each student should explain the elements of their statue and how it represents them.

Presentation Notes

• Prepare a short presentation about your statue. Include the following points:
• Your name and grade
• The characteristics and interests represented in your statue
• The design process and any challenges you faced
• How you feel about your final product
• Facilitate a class discussion on what students learned about themselves and their peers.
• Discuss the challenges faced during the design and printing process and how they were overcome.

Optional Extension Activities:

• Advanced Design: Students can add more complex features or moving parts to their statues.
• Digital Portfolio: Have students create a digital portfolio documenting their design process and final product.
• Art Integration: Have students explore different artistic styles and incorporate them into the statue designs.