Geometric Galactic Gizmos
STEM Pre-K to 3rd
Design Brief
Background: We have been learning about geometric shapes, such as squares, triangles, rectangles, circles, cubes rectangular solids, spheres,
pyramids, cones, and cylinders.
Design Challenge: After reading Mousetranaut, by Mark Kelly, you will design and build a geometric galactic gizmo using both plane and solid
geometric shapes. This Geometric Galactic Gizmo must stand by itself, have at least two moving parts, and be able to transport a mouse across
your wide open space of the table.
Criteria: Your Geometric Galactic Gizmo must:
Have at least three different plane shapes
Have at least one solid shape
Have two moving parts
Stand by itself
Be able to transport a stuffed mouse across the table
Be attractive
Materials: You may select from these items:
Rulers
Glue
Card stock
cardboard cylinders
12 inches of string or yarn
craft sticks
general art supplies
brads
construction paper
12 inches of tape
Tips for Teachers
Targeted Standard of Learning: Mathematics SOL 3.18
 The student will analyze two-dimensional (plane) and three-dimensional (solid) geometric figures (circle, square,
rectangle, triangle, cube, rectangular solid/prism, square pyramid, sphere, cone, and cylinder) and identify relevant
properties, including the number of corners, square corners, edges, and the number and shape of faces, using
concrete models.
Targeted Standard for Technological Literacy: Standard 9
 Students will develop an understanding of engineering design.
Geometric Galactic Gizmo
Group Members: _________________________
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1. What is the problem? State the problem in your own words.
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2. Brainstorm solutions. Draw or describe some possible solutions.
3. Create the solution you and your group think is best. Keep notes below about the problems you have and how you solve them.
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4. Test your solution.
 Does your gizmo have at least three different plane shapes?
YES
NO
 Does your gizmo have at least one solid shape?
YES
NO
 Does your gizmo have two parts that move?
YES
NO
 Does your gizmo stand by itself?
YES
NO
 Can your gizmo transport the stuffed mouse across the table?
YES
NO
 Is your Geometric Galactic Gizmo neat and attractive?
YES
NO
5. Evaluate your solution. Was it the best solution? Would another idea shared in your group have been better? Why or why not?
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What would you have done differently?
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To make your Geometric Galactic Gizmo better, what would you do?
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How would the redesigned Geometric Galactic Gizmo look?
Rubric for Geometric Galactic Gizmo
Name: _________________________________________
No evidence
Limited
understanding
0
1
Design Brief Rubric
The student restated the problem in
his/her own words.
The student brainstormed more than
one idea.
The student created and labeled a sketch
to use as a “blueprint.”
The student included notes about
problems that occurred and their
solutions.
The student tested the creature
 For at least four different plane
shapes
 For at least two solid shapes
 For two moving parts
 To see if it could stand by itself
 To see if it could transport a
mouse
 To see if it is neat and attractive
The student evaluated how he/she could
make it better next time.
The student spoke clearly and
confidently during oral presentation.
Date: ____________________________
Some
understanding
with room for
improvement
2
Good
understanding
with room for
improvement
3
Substantial
understanding
4
No
evidence
Oral Communication Rubric
1
0
The student will use effective
communication skills in group activities:
listens attentively, faces the speaker,
asks questions, and summarizing what is
said.
Responds to questions from teacher(s)
and other group members.
Explains what has been learned.
The student will: speak clearly and use
appropriate volume and pitch.
Will speak at an understandable rate
Will organize ideas sequentially or
around major points of information.
Use grammatically correct language and
specific vocabulary to communicate
ideas.
Limited
understanding
Some
understanding
with room for
improvement
2
Good
understanding
with room for
improvement
3
Substantial
understanding
4