About this resource
Students think of 20 new uses for a brick. It cannot include things bricks may already be used for (ie. building material). Uses for the brick should be well thought out and meaningful. Younger grades may come up with simpler uses, while older grades may get a bit more creative with responses.
Modifications: Younger grades may come up with simpler ideas while older grades may get a bit more creative. Students may need to record ideas or even develop a prototype to see if the idea is plausible. Verbal and written directions should be given.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Science/Engineering/Math
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
- INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. A. Think - Learners display curiosity and initiative by: 2. Recalling prior and background knowledge as context for new meaning.
- INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. B. Create - Learners engage with new knowledge by following a process that includes: 3. Generating products that illustrate learning.
- INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. D. Grow - Learners participate in an ongoing inquiry-based process by: 1. Continually seeking knowledge.
Related STEM Area: Critical thinking & problem solving
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
What students will do
- Students will identify 20 new uses for a brick.
- Students will think critically about how these new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else.
- Students will discuss various uses for the brick with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and problem solving.
Resources Needed
Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil and paper) and physical bricks for exploration and tactile experience.
How learning is assessed
- Students have identified 20 new uses for a brick.
- Students have identified if/how these new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.