E-Fabrication · Unit 08
Low-Fidelity Prototype
Capstone: Design Something That Matters · Student choice
Today’s challenge
Build rapidly with cardboard, paper, clay, or reusable parts before machine time.
Grade 3 focusTeacher-approved choices, visual planning, one main fabrication process, short tests, and a guided presentation.
Grade 5 focusIndependent problem framing, justified process selection, two or more connected systems when useful, documented iteration, and a formal design defense.
Success example · inspiration, not a design to copy
Look closely. What makes this successful?
A quick low-tech model lets users respond before expensive machine work begins.
What to do
- Understand. Read the challenge. Circle the important need, rule, or safety limit.
- Plan. Use the thinking spaces below before you begin making.
- Make. Build, model, code, practice, or investigate carefully with your team.
- Check. Use evidence—not guesses—to decide what worked.
- Improve or explain. Make one useful change or share your strongest conclusion.
Engineer’s thinking
1. Draw and label your plan before building.
2. List the materials, parts, or digital tools you will use.
3. Record one change you make while building.
Evidence check
Show what you learned.
Your teacher will look for: A low-fidelity prototype and a prioritized user-feedback list.
My evidence
My next step
Exit reflection
Today I learned that because .
Next time I will .
How independently did I work?□ I needed coaching□ I worked with my team□ I can teach this skill