Design a small tabletop holder or organizer that keeps one selected classroom item easy to find, hold, or access during class.
Examples of items
pencils · index cards · sticky notes · erasers · markers · rulers
Build materials
paper · cardstock · tape · teacher-approved simple materials
Your solution must…
stand on a tabletop without being attached to the desk.
hold or organize one selected classroom item.
keep the item easy for a user to access.
fit inside a 6 × 6 × 6 inch space (about 15 × 15 × 15 cm).
be possible to prototype with the materials and time provided.
Three versions of one idea
Same shape, same structure, only the color or small detail changes.
Three different approaches
One idea stands items upright. One cradles them horizontally. One uses folds to separate them.
You can decide what you like later. First, give your brain more than one direction.
A feasible idea passes four checks.
Materials
Can I make it with what I have?
Time
Can I build enough to test it?
Function
Could it actually hold or organize the item?
Clarity
Can another person understand my sketch?
Three rounds. Three different ideas.
Sketch
Draw one possible way the holder could work.
Change direction
Use a different shape, structure, or way of supporting the item.
Push further
Try the idea you would not have chosen first.
Use feedback that helps the designer communicate.
I can tell…
“I can tell your idea is supposed to _______.”
I notice…
“One feature I notice is _______.”
I wonder…
“A question I have is _______.”
The goal today is not to vote for the prettiest idea. It is to make each idea understandable.
Select one idea to build next lesson.
Choosing one idea does not mean the design is finished. The prototype will teach you what needs to change.
Finish one sentence.
Next lesson
Students build a rapid prototype of one chosen idea and record changes during making.