LightMySky

Modelling with Sketches

Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem

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What a learner can do afterwards

  • Create a sketch, drawing, or physical model of a design solution
  • Explain how the shape or structure of the design helps solve the problem
  • Relate the model to the real-world problem it addresses

The lesson

Before you build something, you can draw it first. A sketch shows your idea. It helps you think about the best shape.

Try it together

Mia wants a boat that floats well. She draws a boat with a flat bottom. The flat shape helps it float without tipping.

A triangle roof lets rain slide off. The shape solves the rain problem.
Good to know

When you sketch, ask: does this shape help solve the problem? Try a few shapes. Pick the one that works best.

A sketch or model shows your idea. Its shape should help solve the problem.

Watch it

Where it sits

Where this leads

Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.

Then practise

8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.

Modelling with Sketches · Science, ages 5 to 8 · LightMySky