Grade Level: 6-8

Subject: Technology/Engineering

Topic: 3D Printing

Objectives:

• Students will understand the basics of 3D printing technology and its applications.
• Students will learn how to design and create a 3D model using Tinkercad.
• Students will be able to identify the different types of 3D printers and their uses.
• Students will be able to troubleshoot common 3D printing problems.

Materials:

• Computer with internet access
• Tinkercad account
• 3D printer (optional)
• 3D printing filament (optional)

Introduction (10 minutes):

• Begin by asking students if they have ever heard of 3D printing. Ask them to share what they know about it.
• Explain that 3D printing is a technology that allows us to create three-dimensional objects from digital designs.
• Show students examples of 3D printed objects, such as toys, jewelry, and prosthetic limbs.
• Explain that 3D printing has many applications, including in medicine, engineering, and art.

Direct Instruction (20 minutes):

• Explain the different types of 3D printers, including FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), SLA (Stereolithography), and SLS (Selective Laser Sintering).
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type of printer.
• Show students how to create a 3D model using Tinkercad. Demonstrate how to use the different tools and shapes to create a simple object.
• Explain how to export the 3D model as an STL file, which is the file format used by most 3D printers.

Guided Practice (30 minutes):

• Have students work in pairs to create a 3D model using Tinkercad. Encourage them to be creative and think outside the box.
• Circulate around the room to provide assistance and answer any questions.
• Once students have finished their models, have them export the files as STLs and save them to a shared folder.

Independent Practice (30 minutes):

• If a 3D printer is available, have students print their models. If not, have them troubleshoot common 3D printing problems using online resources.
• Have students reflect on the process of creating a 3D model and the challenges they faced. Ask them to share their reflections with the class.

Closure (10 minutes):

• Review the different types of 3D printers and their uses.
• Ask students to share what they learned about 3D printing and its applications.
• Encourage students to continue exploring 3D printing and its possibilities.

Differentiation:

• For students who need extra support, provide step-by-step instructions for creating a 3D model using Tinkercad.
• For students who need a challenge, encourage them to create more complex 3D models or to experiment with different types of 3D printers.
• For students with visual impairments, provide tactile models of 3D printed objects and use audio descriptions to explain the process of 3D printing.