The 10 project guides below offer vibrant snapshots of maker-centered learning in a formal K-12 school setting. Made by the Creativity Lab at Lighthouse Community Charter Schools in Oakland, CA in collaboration with Maker Ed and Maker Promise, these guides introduce 10 engaging, cross-curricular, and hands-on activity ideas along with tips and strategies for implementing and adapting them across different contexts.
Each guide:
- Articulates specific learning targets for projects and activities that are widely applicable across grade levels and content areas
- Offers tips, tricks, and best practices for managing an array of lo-tech prototyping tools and materials
Includes examples of additional extensions and applications
Many thanks to the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation for supporting the production of these project guides.
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Building a scribble machine is an exercise in design, experimentation, persistence, and observation. -
Using simple materials, students will design and build their own visions of what a hand should be. -
Move quickly through the process of design, testing, and redesign. -
Prompt questions regarding everyday objects and appliances. -
Linkages are a versatile project that introduces mechanical motion and are a fun way to connect to STEM learning. -
Quick projects with simple materials that engage students in basic circuitry. -
Learn basic carpentry exercises designed to give young students the know-how to safely use a variety of tools. -
Make discoveries about sound through building and using a variety of instruments. -
Explore properties of light by creating moving scenes with objects. -
Adaptable to different grade levels and materials, from cardboard to wood and nails, scraps to fabric, conductive thread and LEDs.