TARGET

Unit Overview:

Gadgets & Gizmos & Robotics believes that students should be engaged in the design process to solve relevant, authentic, real-world problems. Student teams apply and reinforce their science as well as mathematics, social studies, technology, and language arts content knowledge, through an open-ended design process that results in an original solution. Design challenges are framed by a problem statement, list of materials, and constraints. Learners do not follow a single path from problem to solution, but rather weave in and out of conceptualizing, constructing and testing, and acquiring knowledge, all the while applying multiple skills and habits of mind of innovators.  

Throughout this unit, students have the opportunity to build broad skills useful throughout their lives, regardless of the specifics of the challenge. In using this open-ended approach that leads to the creation of numerous designs, students are challenged to apply their individual knowledge, personal experiences, interests and talents to the process of creating an inventive, team driven solution. This approach creates a powerful learning experience, where students are intrinsically inspired to learn and have pride in achieving a goal as a team.  

Inventing “connects” technology to other curricular areas. Teaching invention builds and strengthens skills in problem solving, planning, research, experimentation, oral and written communication, decision making, and inquiry. The process of inventing helps children make connections across curriculum disciplines in math, science, technology, social studies, supporting state and national standards.