"Volume Voyage: Measuring Fun Spaces!"

Design for Mastery Kit

NEW

5th Grade Project 2 weeks

"Volume Voyage: Measuring Fun Spaces!"

Ruth B

KY.5.MD.4

KY.5.MD.3

Critical Thinker

Effective Communicator

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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage 5th-grade students in a meaningful exploration of volume through the real-world context of playground design. By measuring and calculating the volume of playground equipment, students will develop critical thinking skills as they make informed decisions about space utilization and safety. Through collaboration with community partners and hands-on activities, students will become effective communicators, presenting their designs and reflecting on feedback to refine their understanding of volume as an essential attribute of solid figures.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of volume as an attribute of solid figures, applying this knowledge to real-world scenarios by designing playground equipment. They will enhance their critical thinking skills by analyzing space utilization and safety considerations, making informed decisions supported by accurate measurements and calculations. Through collaboration with community partners and peer feedback, students will refine their communication skills, effectively presenting their designs and engaging in meaningful discussions about the importance of volume in playground design.

Standards

KY.5.MD.4 - Measure volumes by counting unit cubic cm, cubic in, cubic ft. and improvised units.
KY.5.MD.3 - Recognize volume as an attribute of solid figures and understand concepts of volume measurement.

Competencies

Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
Effective Communicator - Engages diverse audiences respectfully by exchanging ideas and information responsibly, listening actively, speaking and writing clearly, and using print and digital media appropriately.

Products

Students will create interactive posters that showcase their playground designs, featuring diagrams and calculations of equipment volumes. These posters will include movable elements that allow viewers to explore and understand how space is utilized in the playground. Additionally, students will develop digital presentations to articulate their design process and demonstrate their understanding of volume and space considerations. Finally, students will construct small-scale 3D models of playground equipment to visually represent their design ideas and engage visitors during the Playground Design Fair.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Volume Exploration Workshop' where students work in teams to construct small-scale models of playground equipment using building blocks. This hands-on activity will help students grasp the concept of volume by manipulating physical objects, fostering collaboration and creativity. Encourage students to think about how different shapes and sizes can fit together within a designated space, laying the groundwork for their playground design project.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their interactive posters and playground designs at the 'Playground Design Fair,' where they can present their projects in creative formats such as posters or 3D models. This exhibition will invite community partners and peers to engage in discussions about the importance of volume and space in playground design. The fair will provide a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and communication skills by explaining their design choices and answering questions.

Copied from "Volume Voyage: Measuring Fun Spaces!"

Plan

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Volume Exploration Workshop - Students collaborate in teams to build small-scale models of playground equipment using building blocks, focusing on understanding volume and space utilization through hands-on manipulation (15 min)	Measuring Classroom Objects - Conduct a hands-on activity where students measure and calculate the volume of various classroom objects using unit cubes, discussing how these measurements can apply to playground equipment design (15 min)	Design Brainstorming Session - Students brainstorm and sketch initial playground designs, considering volume and space, and discuss these ideas with peers for feedback and refinement (15 min)
Deliverables	1. Initial sketches of playground equipment designs, with notes on volume calculations and space considerations.
Preparation	1. Gather building blocks of various shapes and sizes for the 'Volume Exploration Workshop'. 2. Prepare unit cubes for measuring classroom objects. 3. Provide graph paper and pencils for students to sketch their design ideas. 4. Coordinate with the local park district to arrange a potential visit or virtual tour of playgrounds for Week 2. 5. Ensure access to measuring tools such as rulers and tape measures.

Week 2	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6
Activities	Interactive Poster Creation - Students begin designing their interactive posters, incorporating diagrams and volume calculations of playground equipment and ensuring movable elements are included for space utilization exploration (15 min)	Critique and Revision Session - Students form small groups to present their poster drafts, providing and receiving constructive feedback to refine their designs based on guided questions focused on volume and space considerations (15 min)	Final Presentation Preparation - Students rehearse their digital presentations, focusing on clear communication of their design process and volume understanding, in preparation for the upcoming Playground Design Fair (15 min)
Deliverables	1. Interactive poster that includes refined playground designs, volume calculations, and movable elements. 2. Digital presentation showcasing the design process and understanding of volume and space utilization.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for interactive posters, including large poster boards, markers, and materials for movable elements (e.g., Velcro, magnets). 2. Ensure access to digital devices and presentation software for students to create and practice their digital presentations. 3. Arrange the classroom or designated area for the gallery walk and Playground Design Fair, ensuring adequate space for displays and presentations. 4. Coordinate with community partners to confirm their attendance at the Gallery Walk and Playground Design Fair. 5. Prepare guided questions and feedback forms for the critique session to help students provide and receive constructive feedback effectively.