Design and Build a Custom Desk Name Plate

Lesson Title:

Design and Build a Custom Desk Name Plate

Grade Level:

Middle School (Grades 6–8)

Subject Areas:

Technology & Engineering, Design and Modeling, STEM

Time Required:

3–4 class periods (45–50 minutes each)

Lesson Overview:

Students will work in small groups to design and create a custom desk name plate. They will apply the Design Process, consider design constraints, and use tools such as saws, the Glowforge, or a 3D printer to produce their final product. The project emphasizes creativity, teamwork, safety, and problem-solving.

Learning Objectives:

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

1. Apply the steps of the Engineering Design Process to create a functional and aesthetic desk name plate.
   
   

2. Identify and follow design constraints to guide their project.
   
   

3. Safely use basic fabrication tools (hand saws, Glowforge, or 3D printer).
   
   

4. Collaborate effectively in small teams to plan, build, and evaluate their design.
   
   

Materials Needed:

• Pencils, rulers, and graph paper
  
  

• Computers (for digital design or 3D modeling)
  
  

• Wood or plastic materials (e.g., plywood, acrylic sheets, PLA filament)
  
  

• Tools: small hand saws, sandpaper
  
  

• Glowforge or 3D printer
  
  

• Safety goggles
  
  

• Glue, clamps, or screws (if assembling multiple parts)
  
  

Design Constraints:

Each group’s desk name plate must:

1. Be made of at least two parts (e.g., base and name section).

2. Be constructed from wood or plastic.

3. Clearly display a student’s name.

4. Be free-standing and stable.

5. Fit within 6 inches tall and 10 inches wide.

6. Include at least one digital fabrication or manual cutting process (Glowforge, 3D printing, or saw work).

Engineering Design Process Steps:

1. Define the Problem
   
   

   • What is a name plate used for?

   • What should it look like?

   • What constraints must we follow?

2. Brainstorm Ideas 

   • Sketch 2–3 design ideas on paper.

   • Discuss shapes, fonts, and materials.
     
     

3. Develop and Plan

   • Choose the best idea based on the constraints.

   • Create a measured drawing or 3D model.

   • Decide which parts will be cut or printed.
     
     

4. Create a Prototype

   • Cut or print each part carefully.

   • Assemble your name plate.
     
     

5. Test and Evaluate

   • Does it stand up?

   • Is the name easy to read?

   • Does it meet the constraints?
     
     

6. Communicate Results

   • Present your design to the class.

   • Describe what worked well and what you would improve.

Safety Notes:

• Always wear safety goggles when using saws or the Glowforge.

• Follow teacher instructions for all equipment.

• Handle all materials and tools with care.
  
  

Group Roles (for small teams):

Each group of 3–4 students can divide responsibilities:

• Designer: Sketches and models the concept.

• Builder: Assists with fabrication and assembly.

• Safety Manager: Ensures safe tool use.

• Presenter: Prepares and delivers the final presentation.