Use TinkerCad to Create a Lunar Habitat
Lesson Plan: Designing a Moon Base with TinkerCad
Grade Level: Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Subject: Science/Technology
Duration: 3-4 class periods (approximately 45 minutes each)
Objective:
Students will understand the challenges of living on the moon and apply their knowledge to design a functional moon base using TinkerCad, incorporating essential structures and systems for sustaining life.
Materials:
Computers with internet access
TinkerCad accounts for each student
Projector and screen for demonstrations
Handouts with a list of essential moon base elements
Worksheets for planning designs
Lesson Outline:
Day 1: Introduction and Research
Introduction (15 min):
Begin with a brief discussion about the moon, its environment, and why we might want to establish a base there.
Introduce the project: Designing a moon base using TinkerCad.
Research and Learning (30 min):
Present a short video or slideshow about life support systems in space.
Students research each element to understand its purpose and requirements.
Day 2: Planning and Design
Design Planning (20 min):
Students use worksheets to sketch their moon base layout, considering the placement and importance of each element.
Encourage creativity while stressing the importance of functionality.
Introduction to TinkerCad (25 min):
Demonstrate basic TinkerCad functions and tools.
Allow students to explore TinkerCad and start creating basic shapes.
Day 3 & 4: Building the Moon Base
TinkerCad Modeling (2 periods):
Students use TinkerCad to build their moon base design.
Encourage students to refer to their plans and adjust as needed.
Monitor progress, offering assistance and ensuring students incorporate all essential elements.
Assessment:
Participation and Engagement: Regularly check students’ progress and understanding.
Design Completion: Assess the final design based on the inclusion of all essential moon base elements, functionality, and creativity.
Closure:
Have students present their designs to the class, explaining the reasoning behind their layout and choice of elements.
Facilitate a class discussion on the various designs and what students learned about living and working on the moon.
Extensions:
Students write a short essay on the challenges of living on the moon.
Create a 3D print of the best moon base design (if resources allow).
This lesson plan encourages students to apply scientific and technological concepts creatively while developing their skills in digital design and 3D modeling.