About this resource
Students will brainstorm ideas on how to help someone swim faster by inventing something that could be worn on the body, other than flippers. Students will sketch ideas and compare thoughts as a group. Students may test materials in a tub of water to test fluidity and reaction to water to better understand how to use them. Any materials may be used. Students are not constrained to the materials set up for experimentation. Students may also come up with ways to use pre-existing technologies, but in a new way.
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. More advanced students may choose to build a prototype and test it in the tub of water or work with one another to compare ideas/modify plans.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem-Solving/Critical Thinking/Science/Art
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
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.
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. C. Share - Learners engage with the learning community by: 3. Collaboratively identifying innovative solutions to a challenge or problem.
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 something, other than flippers, they could wear on their body to help them swim faster.
- Students compare and contrast designs with classmates.
- Students participate in discussion with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting.
Resources Needed
Variety of materials (could include anything from cotton to rubber) and tub of water for experimentation (if they wish). Graph paper can be used for planning purposes.
How learning is assessed
- Students have designed something, other than flippers, they could wear on their body to help them swim faster.
- Students have compared their own design to classmate's designs.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.