Puppet Power


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In this mechanical engineering activity, learners design shadow puppets with moving parts and use them to tell stories. Learners explore simple and complex linkages while constructing various puppet prototypes.

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes

Learning Time:
2 to 4 hours

Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students

Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14

Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan

Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)


  • thin cardboard pieces
  • brass fasteners (1/2 or 3/4 inch)
  • paint stirrers, rulers or tongue depressors
  • paper and pencils
  • paper punch
  • rulers
  • scissors
  • roll of tape (masking or clear)
  • directional lights (overhead projector, gooseneck lamp or clamp-on shop light with a 75- or 100-watt bulb)
  • decorative elements (optional)

Subjects


  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories


  • Arts and Crafts
  • Performing Arts

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • 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

Culture, ethnicity, and gender

  • Girls

    • Explicity developed for this group
    • Acknowledges this group's contributions to STEM
    • Highlights STEM opportunities for this group
    • Identifies role models or mentors in STEM fields from this group
    • Uses inclusive images of people from this group

Other


Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Twin Cities Public Television, Inc., 2010

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation, 0813519
  • ExxonMobil