Tinkercad

Students will:

• Understand how to use a computer-assisted design application to design and create three-dimensional projects.
• Be able to evaluate designs by utilizing feedback provided by a computer-assisted instruction application and use this feedback to make revisions as needed.
• Be able to create innovative artifacts using a deliberate design process.

Vocabulary Words:

1. Innovative Artifact: An innovative artifact is an original project using a technology tool that is created to share information in a creative manner.
2. Design Process: The design process is a step-by-step design process that helps one to generate ideas, test them, and solve problems.
3. Digital Tools: The use of digital tools, such as computer-assisted design software, to create an artifact.
4. Computer-Assisted Design (CAD): The use of computer systems (or workstations) to aid in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design
5. Computer-Assisted Instruction (CAI): CAI is a program of instructional material presented by means of a computer or computer systems.
6. Prototype: A prototype is the project draft that will be shared and shown for feedback for improvement.
7. Scale: A scale is the relative size of something.
8. Rotate: To rotate is to move or cause to move in a circle around an axis or center.
9. Shortcuts: Shortcuts are a quick way to use your keyboard using a series of two-three keys. 
   • Ctrl c- copy
   • Ctrl v- paste
   • Ctrl z- undo

To prepare for this activity:

• View this how-to video for a quick overview of what Tinkercad can do and how to use it. 

• Set up student accounts. Tinkercad has an option where an invite code may be distributed for ease of setup along with the ability to moderate students under 13.

• Review creations in the Gallery. 

• Once logged in, students and teachers can view and access Starters, Lessons, and Projects. 

  • There are step-by-step instructions to learn how to do the various projects. 

• Here is a step-by-step lesson from Mrs. Paxton showing how to 3d print a keychain. 

See the Accommodations Page and Charts on the 21things4students website in the Teacher Resources. 

Directions for this activity:

1. Students login to their accounts.
2. The teacher is also logged in to model steps.
3. The teacher introduces what Tinkercad is, and explains what computer-assisted design programs do.
4. Optionally, you can show them the nine-minute video so they have an idea of what Tinkercad is and what it can do.  
5. Provide a few examples of use, such as creating prosthetic arms, hooks for use in the classroom, etc.
6. Begin the first basic tutorial modeling step-by-step. Explain to students that the directions are written in the left navigation panel. Alternate modeling steps with students completing them.
7. The first four basic lessons may be completed in one session.
   1. Learning the Moves
   2. Camera Controls
   3. Creating Holes
   4. Scale Copy and Paste

Optional Activity: The last two basics are quite useful, but will extend beyond a 20-minute session.  It is recommended that these two tutorials are completed prior to beginning the projects that are offered on the site. Once the series of lessons are completed students will also be ready to complete independent projects.

NOTE: If you are interested in printing projects, but do not have access to a printer check with your local ISD. Additionally, there are online vendors who will print projects for a fee.

Different options for assessing the students:

• Observations
• Check for understanding
• The Tinkercad tutorials are designed with built-in feedback for students.
• Students may submit a screenshot of each lesson demonstrating mastery to the teacher if desired.