The 4th &5th graders at CGES have been using Tinkercad 3D modeling for the first time. They worked on building their knowledge of all the Tinkercad tools, manipulating different shapes, and learned how to put Viking helmets back together. As they say at CGES, it's a great day to be a Viking!

Over the past month our fourth and fifth grade students have been focusing on the aspect of technology and the process needed to create and print 3D objects within the STEM lab. Students have been able to work with programs such as; Tinkercad and Thingiverse to create and import a variety of shapes and designs. Students began the 3D printing unit by learning about the most common features and tools within each program through the use of the workshop model. Once students watched several demonstrations they were given time to explore each program and work within small groups to construct and deconstruct objects to match details, shapes and shadows from an original design. Students were also given an individual task to complete, which was submitted to the 3D printer to test the student's final product. Students were given the task of completing an individual keychain using the Engineering Design Process to apply accurate dimensions for height, width along with correct grouping. Our students always enjoy working with technology and have been very eager to begin this unit and work with our 3D printers. Our fourth and fifth grade students have been proud to take their completed keychains home to share their new knowledge of 3D printing with their families. This unit has inspired our entire student body to stay curious about future lessons within the STEM lab. It has even sparked curiosity among our younger students and they enjoy asking our fourth and fifth graders about their 3D keychains hanging from their backpacks. This introduction unit will lead the way for future lessons that will relate to Social Studies and Science units throughout the school year. We look forward to creating more 3D objects that continue to foster student growth toward everyday lessons and an interest in possible future careers. This unit provided my students and I a tremendous amount of success toward 3D printing through the use of teamwork. We are very thankful to have Mr. Paige (DLC) work alongside us at Cedar Grove to help launch this unit through the use of Co-teaching.