Grade 5 · Laser & Vinyl · Lesson 39

Interlocking Desk Organizer

Customize a modular system for a specific workspace and user.

Time2 × 60 minutes + adult laser cuttingTeamsTeams of 2–4EquipmentxTool laser cutters

Project inspiration · 3 images

See, build, and test

Use these images to understand the kind of making, details, and testing involved. They are inspiration—not designs students must copy.

Finished student example for Interlocking Desk Organizer
01Finished project
Close view of the same organizer's modular tabs, trays, and joints
02Construction detail
Student rearranging and loading the same organizer
03Student testing

Student directions · Grade 5

What will you make and do?

You will make rearrangeable desk-storage modules that solve two real user needs. The modules should connect securely but separate without damage.

Teacher overview: Students will plan the specific object described below, make and test a first version, then use their results to improve it. Read one step together, demonstrate the unfamiliar action, and let students complete that step before moving on.

  1. 1Plan your project

    Interview a user and measure the tools they want to store. Draw two module layouts and label the two needs each layout addresses.

  2. 2Make the first parts

    Build cardboard compartments and a sample connection. Try moving them into a second arrangement before finalizing the shapes.

  3. 3Put it together

    Add useful labels or engraved symbols to the vector plan. Ask the adult to check slot fit and cut the approved final parts.

  4. 4Test it fairly

    Load the same tools, move the organizer carefully and rearrange the modules. Record loose joints and whether both user needs are met.

  5. 5Improve one part

    Change one compartment size or connector feature. Repeat the same load and rearrangement sequence.

  6. 6Show and turn in

    Present two working arrangements, the user’s needs, measured plan and evidence that the modules can be reused.

How will you know it works?

  • Solves two documented user needs
  • Modules connect securely but can be rearranged
  • Labels or engraved graphics improve use

Before you move on

Explain which measurement, input or design choice you are testing. Predict the result and record what stays the same so your comparison is fair.

Machine cutting, printer setup and electrical power-on require adult approval. A basic-materials model is a valid way to demonstrate the design when equipment is unavailable.

Keep your plan, test notes and before-and-after evidence with the printable design brief below. Use the detailed teacher plan and any coding guide for tool instructions. These steps continue across the lesson’s meetings, not all in one sitting.

For teachers

Engineering standards

This shows how the lesson connects to the national NGSS engineering standards and what student work you can collect.

Assessed

3-5-ETS1-1

Teams define the user or purpose and identify measurable success criteria plus size, material, and time limits.

What students show: Problem statement with criteria, constraints, and a labeled planning sketch.
Practiced

3-5-ETS1-2

Students draw and compare at least two possible shapes, layouts, or joining methods before choosing a design.

What students show: Two ideas and a criteria-based explanation of the selected features.
Assessed

3-5-ETS1-3

Teams prototype in paper or cardboard, have the intended user load, rearrange, and use the organizer during the same three-minute task, revise one feature, and repeat the test.

What students show: Before-and-after prototype, test notes, and an evidence-based revision statement.

Materials

  • User interview and measurement sheets
  • Assorted classroom tools to organize
  • Cardboard layout and joint prototypes
  • Paper, index cards, or thin cardboard for first prototypes
  • Pencils, dark markers, rulers, tape, and child-safe scissors
  • Computer or tablet with beginner vector-drawing software
  • Teacher-approved laser material such as cardboard, plywood, or acrylic
  • Calipers or a teacher-provided material-thickness gauge

Teacher preparation

  1. Choose and verify one material approved for the exact xTool model; record its measured thickness.
  2. Prepare a simple demonstration of cut lines, engrave areas, closed paths, and minimum feature size.
  3. Set up a paper-first prototype station and a material-saving size limit.
  4. Create the file rule G5_39_Team##_v1.
  5. Plan an adult-only file check and cutting queue; students observe from the designated safe area.

Step by step

How to teach it

Day 1 · 0–15

Meet the need

  1. Introduce the mission: Create a modular organizer that solves two real workspace problems for a chosen user.
  2. Name the user or purpose, then agree on criteria and constraints.
  3. Examine how tabs, slots, outlines, and engraved marks appear in sample pieces.
Day 1 · 15–35

Imagine and compare

  1. Each student sketches a different solution using simple shapes.
  2. Teams compare the ideas against the criteria.
  3. Select or combine features and label all cuts, slots, folds, and engraved details.
Day 1 · 35–60

Prototype first

  1. Build a full-size paper or cardboard version.
  2. Use the same test procedure: have the intended user load, rearrange, and use the organizer during the same three-minute task.
  3. Find one weak, confusing, loose, or oversized feature and revise it.
Day 2 · 0–35

Make the vector file

  1. Trace or rebuild the improved design with bold closed paths.
  2. Measure every slot from the actual material thickness and keep tiny details out.
  3. Use the teacher checklist for size, line type, loose pieces, naming, and material use.
Day 2 · 35–60

Cut, assemble, and retest

  1. A trained adult performs the final safety and material check and operates the laser.
  2. Students assemble the finished parts without forcing joints.
  3. Repeat the original test, compare results, and explain one next improvement.

Assessment

  • Problem statement includes a purpose, criteria, and constraints.
  • Two ideas are compared before the final design is chosen.
  • Paper or cardboard prototype is tested before final cutting.
  • Vector file uses closed paths, readable details, and efficient material placement.
  • Revision responds to recorded test evidence.

Supports & extensions

  • Provide editable circle, rectangle, tab, slot, and name-tag starter files.
  • Offer printed picture directions and a color-coded cut-versus-engrave key.
  • Let students draw on paper for an adult or partner to trace digitally.
  • Use larger parts, fewer joints, and pre-measured slot options when helpful.
  • Extension: nest parts to reduce waste or compare two slot widths using measured fit data.

Safety & responsible use

  • Students do not operate the laser cutter.
  • A trained adult verifies material identity, settings, focus, ventilation, fire monitoring, and file placement.
  • Never laser-cut PVC, vinyl, unknown plastics, unidentified coated materials, or any material not explicitly approved.
  • Keep the lid closed during operation and follow the xTool model's required supervision and emergency procedures.
  • Check cut edges and splinters before student assembly; use only teacher-approved adhesives and hand tools.

No-machine alternative

Make the final project from cardstock, corrugated cardboard, recycled folders, or foam board using child-safe scissors and teacher-prepared pieces. Keep the same criteria, comparison, test, and revision cycle.

Printable student design brief

The challenge

Create a modular organizer that solves two real workspace problems for a chosen user.

Success criteria

  • Solves two documented user needs
  • Modules connect securely but can be rearranged
  • Labels or engraved graphics improve use

Constraints

  • Uses the assigned material budget
  • Fits the measured workspace
  • Includes at least two interchangeable modules

Engineer’s notes

Our user or purpose is…
Our two ideas are different because…
The test showed…
We changed… because…
Our cut lines are…
Our engraved details are…
Next time we would…
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