Let Them Build

A few weeks ago we spent nearly an entire Friday building a cloning machine.  The entire process left me with a desire to schedule more of those types of activities.  Here’s a quick recap of our process and a few photos!

We were smack dab in the middle of an Opinion Writing Unit, so it was the perfect time to use our persuasive writing skills.  Students were challenged to think of an idea that they could support.  One they wanted to convince others to support.  I asked them to help me brainstorm things that they’d like to do, but can’t.  We also brainstormed problems that need a solution as well as things we don’t necessarily enjoy doing because they are not fun or take up too much time.  We added these ideas to our SMARTboard file.  The conversation we had was really interesting!

Using our brainstorm list, I encouraged students to pick an idea and write about it.  I shared a story frame for those that needed that support.  They were so busy writing!  After, students were asked to share their opinion pieces.  We practiced our listening and speaking skills.  Students were encouraged to listen carefully and to determine if they agreed with the opinion piece and if they were persuaded that the ideas and reasons presented were the best for our class…for our world.

We then took time to vote.  I reread all the pieces during snack and recess and sorted them into four categories.  I tried very hard to be sure that all ideas and opinions were represented.  We then voted on which device (machine) we’d create!  Interestingly enough, we noticed that most of our ideas were covered if we created a cloning machine.  I believe that’s the reason that idea “won” in the end.

Once our vote results were in, we took time to design prototype drawings.  The students LOVED this part!  We had share time again, where students were encouraged to share out their ideas and prototype designs.  Using these designs as a springboard, and using all of the recycled materials they brought in from home, we then started building.

A few days later we spent time creating a persuasive shared writing piece.  Check out our end results below!

 Download SMARTboard File

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My ultimate dream is to have this kind of activity as a regular part of our week.  How do you incorporate STEAM/STEAM into your year?