About this resource
During this thinking challenge, students come up with ways to write their name without using their hands. Students need to think outside the box when solving this problem. Writing their name does not necessarily mean that it has to be with a paper and pencil. Students can come up with a number of ways to do this while experimenting with many materials. Encourage them to experiment with one another as well.
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. Writing a full sentence using their technique may challenge students further.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem-Solving/Creativity/Critical Thinking/Science
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. C. Share - Learners engage with the learning community by:
2. Co-constructing innovative means of investigation. 3. Collaboratively identifying innovative solutions to a challenge or problem.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
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. 3-5-ETS1-3. Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
What students will do
- Students will identify 5 new new ways to write their name without using their hands.
- Students will think critically about how this could solve a problem/help individuals with a special need or disability.
- Students will discuss ideas with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting.
Resources Needed
Various materials of the makerspace (play dough, cardboard, sand, markers, etc.), paper, writing utensils.
How learning is assessed
- Students have identified 5 new new ways to write their name without using their hands.
- Students have compared thoughts about how this could solve a problem/help individuals with a special need or disability.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.