| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Design and technology |
| What age group | Year or Grade 6 |
| What topic | Construction |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
Begin the lesson with an air of excitement and curiosity! Set the classroom environment to feel like a construction zone. Use caution tape to mark off areas, hang blueprints (which you can print or draw) on the walls, and perhaps have construction hats for the students to wear.
Gather the students in a circle and unveil an envelope labeled "THE MYSTERY BUILD CHALLENGE." Inside the envelope, there could be a simple set of instructions or a riddle. For example:
Riddle: "I have a strong foundation and a roof overhead,
I come in many shapes, with walls firm and red.
I protect you from rain, and keep out the cold.
What am I?
Build me strong, so I won’t fold!"
Encourage Discussion
Ask the students to solve the riddle together. Through guided discussion, allow them to provide answers and share experiences related to buildings they’ve seen or visited.
Once the riddle is solved (the answer being "a house" or "a building"), introduce the challenge!
"Today, you will all become architects and builders! Each group will receive materials to design a model of a building that can withstand imagined forces like wind and rain!"
Assign students into small groups, encouraging collaborative teamwork. Discuss the roles they can take on in their groups:
Briefly explain the materials they will be using (e.g., cardboard, straws, tape, glue, scissors). Ensure they understand that creativity and teamwork are key to success!
Conclude the introduction by emphasizing the importance of construction in everyday life. Explain that construction is not just about building buildings, but about creating safe spaces where people can live, work, and play.
Transition into the main activity by handing out the materials and letting students dive into their creative construction projects with enthusiasm!
With this engaging introduction, students will be intrigued, motivated, and eager to explore the world of construction in design and technology. Happy building!