Geometric Shapes

The Geometric Shapes project will introduce students to the concepts of 3D nets to create 3D polygon shapes. Students will research different 3D polygons and their nets before choosing their favorite model for 3D printing. While the project is intended to be a single lesson with printing following the lesson, the project can be extended to a second lesson by exploring different net solutions for their 3D polygons or choosing a different shape.
Subjects
Design and TechnologyScienceMathematicsComputing
Years | Grades
7th Grade | 11-12 years8th Grade | 12-13 years9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Print time: ~ 2 hours

Geometric shapes trailer
Play 0:54

Objectives

  • Construct a net for a variety of geometric 3D shapes
  • Use TinkerCAD software to build a net for a 3D shape suitable for 3D printing
  • Construct a model of a geometric 3D shape using 3D printed components
 

Tools and equipment

  • BE3D eDee 3D printer
  • A computer with CAD software
  • Example 3D polygons
  • Paper / pencils
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Comfortably navigate the internet in a safe manner to access the online image converter
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or Similar CAD software at a beginner/intermediate level
  • Comfortably use DeeControl software and adjusting print settings
  • Use the BE3D eDee 3D printer

Geometric Shapes walkthrough
Locked 2:42

3D models overview

  • Total print time 3 hours 25 minutes
  • Total filament 6.8 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
Poly Snap Equilateral
  • 30 minutes
  • 0.7 m
Poly Snap Hexagon
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
  • 2.9 m
Poly Snap Pentagon
  • 1 hour
  • 2 m
Poly Snap Square
  • 40 minutes
  • 1.3 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

  • Lesson plan
  • Example ‘poly snap’ geometric shapes
  • Worksheet
  • Walkthrough
  • Presentation
  • 3D models
  • 3D print instructions
  • Curriculum Alignment: ISTE standard compliant