Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Design and Modeling (DM) is currently taught in 6th grade. This course focuses on 3D design. We begin by discussing engineering and the role it plays in our world. After this, the students become engineers as they begin building their first project. As the course name suggests, we spend the majority of the time discussing the importance of planning and design.

Throughout the course, we work to make paper and pencil 3D designs using isometric paper that we then use to create multiview sketches. Once the students have an understanding what these view look like and how they help in the design process, we move to designing models on the computer using Sketchup for Education. Since it is web-based, this software allows the students the flexibility to work on designs in and out of my classroom. In the end, we complete a puzzle cube project that brings the different design elements together. Once the students have shown their ability to design like an engineer, they earn the privilege of printing out an object on our Lulzbot Taz 6 3D printer. If students wish, they can further their design skills by taking additional classes when they get into high school.

Click Below to Access the DM Curriculum