8th Grade CAD Unit Objective
8th Grade CAD Unit Objective
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Building on their 6th and 7th grade skills students will tackle real-world design challenges, combining isometric and orthographic skills with advanced CAD techniques. They will design, prototype, and refine functional models, applying critical thinking and creativity to solve problems. We will be using tools such as isometric paper and TinkerCAD to work through these projects. This unit equips students with technical skills and hands-on experience in design and manufacturing, preparing them for future opportunities in technology and engineering fields.
Isometric Paper is a great tool to help us draw isometric shapes. Use the angles on the paper to guide your drawings, There should never be horizontal lines on the paper.
There will be plenty of isometric paper to practice with in the classroom or print one by clicking on the link below.
TinkerCAD
TinkerCAD
TinkerCAD is a beginner-friendly, web-based 3D design and modeling tool that allows students to bring their creative ideas to life. With its simple drag-and-drop interface, students can design 3D models, learn the basics of CAD (computer-aided design), and prepare their projects for 3D printing. TinkerCAD helps build problem-solving and design skills, making it an excellent introduction to the world of engineering and digital creation for students and families alike.
Unit Vocabulary
Unit Vocabulary
3D Modeling
The process of creating a three-dimensional representation of an object using specialized software.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
The use of computer software to create, modify, analyze, or optimize a design.
Isometric Drawing
A method of representing a 3D object in two dimensions, where the angles between the axes are all 120 degrees.
Orthographic Projection
A way of drawing an object from different views (e.g., top, front, side) to represent its dimensions accurately.
Dimension
A measurement that defines the size of an object, such as length, width, or height.
Extrude
A modeling process that extends a 2D shape into a 3D object by adding depth.
Fillet
A rounded edge or corner added to a design to smooth sharp angles.
Chamfer
A beveled edge or corner added to a design to remove sharpness.
Scale
The proportion of a model or drawing in relation to the actual size of the object.
Prototype
An initial model or sample created to test and refine a design.
Tolerance
The allowable variation in a physical dimension or measurement to ensure parts fit together properly.
Axis
A reference line used to define the position of points in a 3D space, typically X, Y, and Z axes.
Workplane
A flat surface used as a base for drawing or modeling in 3D design software.
Rendering
The process of generating a realistic image of a 3D model with textures, lighting, and shading.
STL File
A file format used for 3D printing that represents the surface geometry of a model.
Support Structure
Temporary materials added during 3D printing to support overhanging or complex shapes.
Resolution
The level of detail in a 3D model or print, often measured in layer thickness.
Slicing
The process of converting a 3D model into layers that a 3D printer can use to build the object.
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