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Educating for Innovation Details

A Sticky Situation

By Katherine McGinnis
Thinking Challenge
Estimated time30 minutes
Sessions1
GradeGrade K-2
View lesson details
Subjects
Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Collaboration High

About this resource

Students think of 10 new uses glue that does not include sticking something together. Uses for the glue 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. 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. Encourage students to think about all types of glue.  

Curriculum & Standards

Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area

Problem-Solving/Engineering

Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard

AASL Main Standard(s): 

I. 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. 2. Engaging in sustained inquiry.

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: 

3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost. 

What students will do

  1. Students will identify 10 new uses for glue that does not include holding two things together. 
  2. Students will think critically about how these new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else. 
  3. Students will discuss various uses for the glue with classmates.

Explore the creative process by thinking critically and problem solving.

Resources Needed

Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil & paper), glue for reference (glue sticks, glue bottles, hot glue, etc.)

How learning is assessed

  1. Students have identified 10 new uses for glue. 
  2. Students have identified if/how these new uses solved a problem or replaced a task formerly used by something else. 
  3. Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.