About this resource
Students brainstorm twenty new uses for a pencil that does not include writing or drawing. Students may brainstorm together or independently. Students refine ideas and compare and contrast with others. Further discussion can center on the new ideas and if they could be considered inventions. Students can also explore whether or not the new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else.
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. Developing a prototype of one of their ideas may challenge students further.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem Solving/Writing/Math/Technology
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
III. COLLABORATE Work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals. A. Think - Learners identify collaborative opportunities by: 3. Deciding to solve problems informed by group interaction.
III. COLLABORATE Work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals. C. Share - Learners work productively with others to solve problems by: 2. Involving diverse perspectives in their own inquiry processes.
I. 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.
Related STEM Area: Critical thinking & problem-solving
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
MS-ETS1-3. Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify
the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.
MS-ETS1-4. Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process
such that an optimal design can be achieved.
What students will do
- Students will identify 20 new uses for a pencil that does not include writing or drawing.
- Students will think critically about how these new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else.
- Students will discuss their ideas with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and problem solving.
Resources Needed
Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil & paper), pencils for reference and experimentation.
How learning is assessed
- Students have identified 20 new uses for a pencil that does not include writing or drawing.
- Students have identified if/how their ideas solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.