About this resource
Students will design a house that is 75% underground, does not have access to electricity, but still needs light from the outside both in the morning and at night. Students will have to use various skills to figure this problem out. In many cases students may find that they cannot completely solve this problem. However, the process will help them think critically and come up with the best answer. Students can sketch the house on graph paper and compare and contrast ideas. Students may be able to make a prototype of the house if they wish to take this one step further.
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
Math/Science/Problem-Solving
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
II. INCLUDE Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to inclusiveness and respect for diversity in the learning community. C. Share - Learners exhibit empathy with and tolerance for diverse ideas by: 1. Engaging in informed conversation and active debate.
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: 2. Engaging in sustained inquiry.
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.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, math, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
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 design a house that is 75% underground, does not have access to electricity, but still needs light from the outside both in the morning and at night.
- Students compare and contrast designs with classmates.
- Students participate in discussion with classmates.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting
Resources Needed
Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil & paper), graph paper.
How learning is assessed
- Students have designed a house that is 75% underground that gets light from the outside both in the morning and at night.
- Students have compared designs/inventions with classmates.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.