PLTW-Design and Modeling Curriculum
Introduction to DesignLesson 1: Introduction to Design
Students discover the design process as they complete an instant design challenge to create an ankle footorthosis. They learn thumbnail, orthographic, isometric, and perspective sketching as methods for communicatingdesign ideas effectively without the use of technology. The use of a common measurement system is essentialfor communicating and fabricating designs. Students learn conversions between two measurement systems andapply measurement skills while dimensioning sketches. Students conduct a mechanical dissection in the lessonproject to better understand how objects and parts interact while using sketches to communicate and documenttheir findings. |
Modeling and Statistical AnalysisLesson 2: Modeling and Statistical Analysis
In this lesson, students transfer a two-dimensional representation to a three-dimensional solid model withtechnology. Students study basic geometric shapes within a mathematical model and use combinations ofgeometric primitives to form more complex shapes. During the design project, students work in teams and applythe design process to create a puzzle cube. Students create a solid model using a computer-aided design (CAD)application and fabricate their design solution for testing. Students use a dynamic mathematics program tocomplete statistical analysis from their testing results to determine if their design met the criteria and constraints. |
Design ChallengeLesson 3: Design Challenge
Students use a simulation to better understand cerebral palsy prior to beginning their Therapeutic Toy DesignChallenge. Within teams, students brainstorm and select a design solution to the problem based on designrequirements. They establish team norms, collaborate, and recognize that solving authentic problems involvesinterdisciplinary skills such as engineering, biomedical science, and computer science skills. Using the designprocess, students create a solid model of their design, build a prototype for design testing, and make necessarydesign modifications based on testing results. |