About this resource
After reading Sky Boys: How They Built the Empire State Building (Hopkinson, 2006) and Rosie Revere, Engineer (Beatty, 2013), students will build a sculpture using Legos and shapes designed in 123 Design (Tinkercad). Some classes will have access to a 3D printer and possibly a laser cutter.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Science, Social Studies
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
Kansas College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Literacy Learning Standard 1: Engage in literacy learning through a collaborative and community effort and in an integrated fashion, rather than as discreet skills in isolation.
What students will do
Students will create a STEM project based on prior knowledge and new learning. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with their designs.
Resources Needed
Legos in plastic tubs (enough for small groups or individuals to build skyscrapers)
Rosie Revere, Engineer and Sky Boys, blank paper, Legos, laser cut shapes
Lesson sequence & procedures
Steps (after reading books):
- Students sit at tables with laser cuts. Small group discussion of what Rosie encountered during the design process: frustration, encouragement. Group members should share opinions and share how they would have handled Rosie's situation.
- Students work together to build a sculpture using the laser cuts or Tinker Toys (any design toys would work).
- Students then use plain or graph paper to sketch skyscraper. Using Legos, students try to recreate their skyscraper.
- Additional idea: students display all sculptures and skyscrapers. Students could name their creation and display gallery style.