Building an Army

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In this activity, learners explore the potential of interchangeable standard parts to create a large number of unique creations in different combinations. Learners use math skills to determine the number of possible combinations and visually illustrate the point by completing representations of different possibilities. This activity relates to the process ancient Chinese artisans used to craft thousands of seemingly unique Terra Cotta warrior figurines. This activity is featured on pp.38-42 (part of a lesson that begins on p.33) of the "Treasures of the Earth: Discover Clues to the Past" unit of study for grades 3-5 and 6-8.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth's History
      • Archeology
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Manufacturing Engineering
    • Technology
      • Manufacturing
  • Mathematics
    • Algebra
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Probability
    • Number and Operations
      • Multiples and Factors
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Technology and History

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Historical Reenactment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 2011

Funding Sources:

  • AAA Insurance
  • Indianapolis Honda Dealers
  • Key Bank
  • National Geographic