H2O: A Science and 3D Fusion

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My printer is now about to print. Wait until the job is complete to see the pictures. Let me remind you of those days when teachers would spend hours searching for just one perfect sample for their classes to understand compounds and elements? Don't worry, I'm here to save the day as I present... H2O: The Harmony of Science and 3D Printing This model of a basic compound is made up of just a few fundamental components and some subtractive designing (aka "Holes" for those who aren't regulars on Make: Magazine). Print this out as an example for your students. Read on for design tips, a lesson plan, and more! When you combine Tinkercad and Makerbot 3D printers, something truly magical happens. - Luke Ajem Print Settings Printer Brand MakerBot Printer MakerBot Replicator 2 Rafts Doesn't Matter Supports No Resolution A resolution of 100 microns is sufficient Infill Use 20% infill Notes The above brand is what this model was optimized for, but not the actual printer I used. Check out my other educational project at Abstract 3D Bridge - An Art/Engineering Fusion Post-Printing Easy as Pie This process is straightforward and hassle-free After printing, all you need to do is display it in class and challenge them with the lesson plan below! How I Designed This Simple yet Effective The core of this demo is actually just three spheres, connected by link-like boxes, combined with letter-shaped holes to create a model Project-Remodeling Compounds Objectives Build simple but complex designs from a basic model Take notes on designs Audiences Designated Grades 3rd-8th grade Designated Ages 7-14 years old Design Level Basic Preparation Students need access to a 3D printer, a computer with Wi-Fi, and a Tinkercad account. Signing up is easy - just go to Tinkercad. Also, instructors should be prepared to answer questions, and should know how to slice files and print prior to reading this. Lesson Plan Step 1: Choose an Element or Compound to Model Assign groups of two or three students each, and then assign compounds and/or elements they must model. Give them a total project time of half a week to a week. Step 2: Research Have the students research the molecular structure of their assigned compound, and have them draw a 2D model on paper (remind them to keep these "notes"). Step 3: Design For the next couple days, have the groups create a 3D model. Step 4: Print&Review Open the slicing program and print all models When finished, review the accuracy of each model and take all the notes from students. Review the project and/or have students present their prints for half a period Results Students should now have a model of their compound or element Students should have a better understanding of Tinkercad Students should now possess a .stl file or a printed model