Volume Blocks

thingiverse

This is a detailed guide for teaching students about volume calculations, geometry, and 3D modeling using physical objects and a computer-aided design (CAD) program. Here's a breakdown of the steps: **Preparation** * Print out a sufficient number of blocks and depth gauges ahead of time. * Mark the lines on the gauges with a marker. * Ensure students have calculators, rulers, scratch paper, and access to computers with 123D Design or similar CAD program installed. **Steps** 1. Distribute physical objects (blocks) to students one at a time, along with a depth gauge to keep. 2. Inform students that the assignment is about calculations, not just measuring, and that they can complete it using only the depth gauge if needed. 3. Provide guidelines for measurements: * All necessary dimensions can be evenly divided by 5mm (or 1/4"). * Round objects (cylinders/spheres) are assumed to be regular. 4. Ask students to research and calculate the weight of an object made from three different materials (water, iron, and tungsten). 5. For blocks 5 and 6, inform students that they require basic trigonometry knowledge and can be challenging. **Optional Computer-Aided Design Tutorial** 1. Provide students with a tutorial on using the CAD program to design an object. 2. Allow students to work through the tutorial after completing at least the first four blocks. **Final Project** 1. Ask students to create a similar object that meets the following requirements: * Divides cleanly into 5mm or 1/4" units. * Round objects are regular. * Physically measuring is not difficult (no hidden recesses, etc.). * Can be printed without supports. * The student must be able to solve it. **Assessment** 1. Grade the volume calculations from the original objects as a normal question, emphasizing accuracy and showing work. 2. For blocks 5 and 6, offer extra credit or omit them if necessary. 3. Grade the design aspect (30%): * Accuracy and symmetry of the object. * Meeting deadlines. 4. Deduct points for attendance: * 1 day's absence = 2% deduction (max 10%). * Legitimate reasons excluded. 5. Assign a quarter of the remaining points to attendance (10%) and the rest to the final designed piece (20%). This guide provides a structured approach to teaching students about volume calculations, geometry, and 3D modeling while promoting creativity and problem-solving skills.