“Look at this diagram of a cell. Here are the parts. Great, now label it on this handout.”
Ms. Grigg and I wanted to break this boring cycle and do something new for her students to show their knowledge of cells. We decided to have the students design a three dimensional cell on the computer, and then print it out using a 3D printer.
We first had the class get on Tinkercad to start designing their cell. Tinkercad is a super easy way to create 3D figures for free. All students need to do is create an account, using their Google sign in information. Once in the accounts students just dragged and dropped shapes to create their cells.
The students had about a week to work on their cell design. Mrs. Grigg made sure her class had about 10 to 15 minutes a day to work on their cells. Some of the students were so excited that they worked on it at home!
Once the students were satisfied with their design we started printing. They were amazed on how what they designed on the computer was now something they can hold in their hands. The best part of the lesson was seeing the students’ faces while they were explaining the parts of their cell.
Mrs. Grigg’s class learned that the 3D printer wasn’t just a fun toy, but a powerful tool. They can’t wait until we use this tool again.
