About this resource
Students will design a pair of shoes that will help them jump higher. Students may use their own shoes to brainstorm ideas and look at various materials to help them think creatively. Students record various ideas and discuss with one another giving reason for their choices. This could be taken one step further and turned into an open-ended challenge if students use their own shoes to build a prototype of their idea.
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. Developing a prototype of one of their ideas may challenge students further. Younger students may choose to work together while older students may choose to work individually. Thinking about various types of shoes could also challenge students.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem-Solving/Critical Thinking/Science
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
III. COLLABORATE Work effectively with others to broaden perspectives and work toward common goals. D. Grow - Learners actively participate with others in learning situations by: 1. Actively contributing to group discussions. 2. Recognizing learning as a social responsibility.
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. B. Create - Learners construct new knowledge by: 1. Problem solving through cycles of design, implementation, and reflection. 2. Persisting through self-directed pursuits by tinkering and making.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
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.
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 design a pair of shoes that will help someone jump higher.
- Students compare and contrast designs with classmates.
- Students participate in discussion with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting.
Resources Needed
Various materials for students to ponder use for, including cotton, rubber bands, rubber, bouncy balls, blocks, graph paper (for planning), extra shoes of various styles, etc...
How learning is assessed
- Students have designed a pair of shoes that will help someone jump higher.
- Students have compared their own design to classmate's designs.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.