Make a Repeated Pattern

Hand out the worksheets and allow the students to interpret the activity for themselves, or read the MAKER connect text aloud to set the scene.

As students look at the connect images and questions, facilitate a discussion to steer them toward a problem. Once they have decided upon a problem to solve, ensure that they record it on their worksheet.

Students should initially work independently, spending three minutes to generate as many ideas as they can to solve the problem. They can use the bricks from the set during the brainstorming process, or sketch out their ideas in the space provided on the worksheet. Students can now take turns sharing their ideas within their groups. Once all of the ideas have been presented, each group should select the best idea(s) to make. Be prepared to help facilitate this process to ensure that the students choose something that is possible to make.
Encourage diversity, not all student groups have to make the same thing.

Possible Repeated Pattern Solution, for Inspiration
Note: You are advised not to share these images with students.

Students must record up to three design criteria so that they can refer to it when they review and revise their solution.

Students make one of the ideas using the LEGO^® Simple and Powered Machines and other materials as needed.
Reinforce that students do not have to come up with the whole solution from the start. For example, if they are making a motorized drawing machine, they could first explore how to draw simple circles before drawing more complex shapes.
During the making process, remind students to test and analyze their idea as they go, making improvements where necessary. If you want students to submit their documentation at the end of the lesson, ensure that they record their design journey during the making stage using sketches and photos of their models.

Students test and evaluate their designs against the design criteria they recorded before they started making their solution.
Allow the students to select the tool(s) they find appropriate for capturing and sharing their reflections. Encourage them to use text, videos, images, sketchnotes, or another creative medium.

Allow time for each student or student group to present what they have made to the class. A good way to do this is to set out a table large enough to display all of the models. If time is short, two groups can present to each other.

Students use the student worksheet assessment rubric to evaluate their design work according to the learning goals. Each rubric includes four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The intention of the rubric is to help students reflect on what they have done well in relation to the learning goals and what they could have done better. Each rubric can be linked to engineering-related learning goals from the NGSS.

Ensure that you leave enough time at the end of the lesson to break the models down and sort them back into the LEGO boxes. You will need approximately 10 minutes to do this.