Prototypes and models allow early testing of key design functions. Students will create a benchtop prototype to test the efficacy of their mechanism in their design. Students will sketch in detail and plan their first prototype.

Play Video: How to make a cardboard prototype

Think about the key design functions you would like to test by prototyping. Make sure to sketch these and talk with your partner to plan what materials you will need to prototype this function.

Part 1: Sketch the plan for your initial prototype. This sketch will be detailed, and include dimensions (Width x Length x Height) and labels for each portion of their system. If needed, add specific details of “zoomed in” subsystems.

Part 2: Work together to identify materials needed to complete your prototype, and create a plan for gathering the materials needed to build your design.

Teacher Note: Remind students that they should use simple, readily available materials (paper, cardboard, old fabric samples, tape, glue,etc.) They will need to bring in these materials to the next class.

Part 3: Check

Did your group integrate what you have learned about existing solutions, inspiration from biological systems to this prototype?