In addition to grants which were previously announced, the Westerville Education Foundation has announced the awarding of one more – $2,025 to Susan Smucker, fourth grade teacher, Mark Twain Elementary School, and Kimberly Niles, Elementary Technology Integraion Specialist. The money will be used to purchase a 3D printer.
Last year fourth grade math classes at Mark Twain designed houses using 3D design software to study the mathematical shapes, measurements and angles needed in building a house. Students learned measurement skills and developed design skills in order to create homes of various sizes for a simulated neighborhood. Based on the success of this classroom project, the teachers wanted to expand the 3D design drawing to include 3D printing. They envision using the 3D printer for Invention Convention science projects. While creating their own inventions, students will be able to use the 3D printer to create prototypes that reflect their thinking.