The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project

Engineering Abstract Art Self Expression

Engineering Abstract Art Self Expressions

A 4th/5th Grade STEM Lesson

Hope Loveland

January 2024

Notes for Teachers

This lesson was designed for a 4th grade gifted enrichment class, to learn engineering techniques with cardboard.

​

Students work individually.

​

This lesson could be one week.

​

This lesson has the following parts:

• Draw a design with 5 engineering techniques & measurements
• Create the design using cardboard
• Make a video showcasing the design, the 5 engineering techniques, and the engineering design process

​

Use the Engineering Abstract Art Slides with students.

List of Materials

• cardboard
• Elmer’s glue
• dowels
• cardboard saws, electric and non-electric
• string
• brass fasteners
• water
• rulers
• paper
• Google slideshow to share video presentation

Standards

Engineering Technical Standards

​

2.0 Create engineering solutions by applying a structured problem-solving/

decision-making process

​

​

​

​

Educational Technology Standards

​

3-5.6.c. Students, in collaboration with an educator, create digital artifacts using digital tools to communicate ideas visually, graphically, and/or auditorily.

• ​
• ​

Standards

Educational Technology Standards

​

3-5.4.b. Students, in collaboration with an educator, use digital and/or non-digital tools to plan and manage a design process.

​

3-5.4.c. Students, in collaboration with an educator, engage in a cyclical design process to develop, test and refine prototypes and reflect on the role that trial and error plays.

​

3-5.4.d. Students demonstrate perseverance when working with open-ended problems.

Standards

Visual Arts Standards

​

4.1 Generate and Conceptualize Artistic Ideas

a. Independently brainstorm multiple approaches to solve a creative art or design problem.

4.2 Organize and Develop Artistic Ideas and Work

a. Develop technical skills and explore art-making approaches

b. When making works of art, utilize and care for materials, tools, and equipment

4.3 Refine and Complete Artistic Work

a. Revise artwork in progress on the basis of insights gained through peer discussion.

• ​
• ​

Standards

Mathematics Standards

​

4.MD.C Geometric measurement: Understand concepts of angle and measure angles.

optional standard for added complexity

Objective(s):

I can:

• Utilize the engineering design process to design, plan, create and share a unique, 3D cardboard, abstract self expression (likeness).
• Design and build a 3D cardboard self expression utilizing 5 engineering techniques.
• Create and share a video that presents the creation.
• Demonstrate understanding of abstract art by designing and creating a unique piece of art.

Agenda

Day 1

Introduce students to abstract art

• ask students what they notice and how they would define abstract art

Introduce students to the challenge & show students the engineering techniques.

Have students create a design, including measurements and engineering techniques labeled.

Approve students’ designs as they finish.

Day 2-5

Have students build their creations.

When students are finished, have them make presentation videos and share in a shared class Google slideshow.

Challenge

​

​

Create an abstract self-expression (likeness) using cardboard and 5 engineering techniques.

Hands-on Activity Instructions

• Students work individually
• Students plan a design on paper, including measurements and engineering techniques
• Students create their design, utilizing the engineering techniques
• Have students present and share their creation via video on a class Google slideshow

​

​

Assessment

Students prepare a video, presenting their creation, 5 engineering techniques, and the Engineering Design Process. Students share their videos in a class Google slideshow.

​

Here is a rubric you can use: Abstract Art Self Expression Rubric

Differentiation

Students can choose the level of complexity of their design.

​

Provide students with extra time.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Students can choose the level of complexity of their design.

​

Students can choose the creativity and complexity of their video presentation.