A Towering Achievement

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In this experience, learners use the internet to research physical details about Chihuly's Fireworks of Glass "Tower" and "Ceiling" and consider the decisions Chihuly had to make as he was planning the sculpture. As part of the activity, learners practice their measuring skills to estimate the height of Chihuly's "Tower." Learners also consider the roles and responsibilities of team members and other workers and why teamwork is important in constructing a large sculpture. This activity is featured on pp.45-48 of the "Fireworks of Glass: The Art of Dale Chihuly" unit of study for grades 3-5.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Images of Fireworks of Glass Tower and Ceiling
  • Yardsticks or measuring tapes
  • Masking tape (optional)
  • Flip chart paper and marker
  • Computers with internet access
  • Notebooks
  • Large pieces of newsprint (at least 18 in. x 36 in.) or other inexpensive paper
  • Pens/markers

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
    • Technology
      • Construction
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement
      • Size and Scale
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • use keyboard
  • use mouse
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • 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:

Includes assesments for student learning:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 2006