Lesson Plan

Creating a Simple 3D House in SketchUp for Schools

Grade Level: Middle School

Lesson Duration: 2-3 Class Periods (45-60 minutes each)

Lesson Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Use SketchUp for Schools to create a basic 3D house model.

2. Apply fundamental 3D modeling techniques, including drawing, extruding, and grouping objects.

3. Reflect on their learning experience and submit their work to a digital portfolio.

Materials Needed:

• Computers or Chromebooks with SketchUp for Schools installed.

• Internet access to watch the tutorial video.

• Google Drive and Google Sites for portfolio submission.

Lesson Outline:

Day 1: Introduction & SketchUp Basics (45-60 minutes)

1. Hook (5-10 min):

   • Show images of 3D house models. Ask:

     • What features make a house look realistic?

     • Why might architects use 3D modeling software?

2. Watch Tutorial Video (15 min):

   • Play the video for students.

   • Ask them to take notes on key steps.

3. SketchUp Exploration (30 min):

   • Students open SketchUp for Schools and practice using:

     • The Rectangle Tool to create walls.

     • The Push/Pull Tool to extrude walls into 3D.

     • The Line Tool to create a simple roof.

   • Encourage them to save their progress in Google Drive.

Day 2: Building the 3D House (45-60 minutes)

1. Review & Questions (10 min):

   • Discuss key steps from the video.

   • Address student questions about SketchUp tools.

2. Designing the House (35-45 min):

   • Students create a simple 3D house, ensuring they include:

     • Walls and a pitched roof.

     • At least one door and window.

     • Optional: A simple chimney or steps.

   • Remind them to save frequently!

Day 3: Finalizing & Portfolio Submission (45 minutes)

1. Finishing Touches (20 min):

   • Students finalize their house, ensuring it is complete and polished.

2. Taking a Screenshot (5 min):

   • Show students how to capture a screenshot of their finished house.

3. Reflection Writing (10 min):

   • Students write a three-sentence reflection and upload it to their Google Site portfolio:

     • What was the most fun or challenging part of this project?

     • What did you learn about 3D design?

     • How could you improve your house if you had more time?

4. Portfolio Submission (10 min):

   • Students upload their screenshot and reflection to their Google Site.

Assessment Criteria:

✔ 3D House Model: Includes a basic structure, walls, roof, door, and windows.
✔ Use of SketchUp Tools: Demonstrates correct use of drawing, extruding, and modifying tools.
✔ Screenshot Submission: Uploaded to Google Site portfolio.
✔ Reflection: Thoughtful, complete, and clearly written.