Overview

In this lesson, students create an intervention that encourages the reuse of a product that would typically be thrown away after a single use. The project begins with a presentation, which highlights the problems with our current linear economy. Students are then introduced to a new way of thinking (The Circular Economy) and work in teams to define the problems with unnecessary waste at their school. Through an inquiry-based design process, they create a 3D printed intervention and test its functionality in a chosen location within their school. The final part of the project involves students developing proposals to manufacturers, suggesting ways they could redesign products for a circular economy.


Included Resources


Curriculum alignment documents (ISTE, NGSS, CCSS and UK National Curriculum Standards)


Class presentation (Google Docs and PDF)


Example intervention model (STL)


Video design tutorials in Tinkercad and Fusion 360 (hosted on PrintLab's student portal)


Explainer and case study videos (hosted on PrintLab's student portal)


Design workbook Google Docs and PDF)


Assessment rubric (Google Docs and PDF)