Lesson 9: Digital Hearts and Minds: 3D Printing

Suggested Time: 60 minutes

Overview
Students will learn how 3D printing works, discover its medical applications, and explore CAD software.
Vocabulary
Objectives
Required Project Materials
Multimedia Resources
Optional Multimedia Resources
Before the Lesson/ Background Information
The Lesson
Part 1: 3D Printing (20 mins)
  1. After allowing the students to turn in or share their reports from the previous class session, read through “What is 3D Printing” with the class and show the videos.
  2. Separate the class into two reading groups. Distribute the “Heart Technology” and “Chemputer” articles, one article per group. After reading and discussing the articles, each group will summarize the article for the class.
  3. Discuss other possible medical applications for 3D printing.
Part 2: CAD Modeling (40 mins)
  1. Students will explore the CAD software, Sketchup.
  2. If you have access to a 3D printer or have identified a location for a field trip, students may design a few models to be printed (depending on the parameters for using the printer, and resources available).
Homework:
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