Cool Tool Creations
Big Idea: People use tools to make tasks easier.
Materials:
- Discovery Chart
- Markers
- Paper
- Pencils
Variety of materials to be used for creating tools. Materials may include, but not be limited to the following:
- String
- Plastic utensils (spoons, knives)
- Masking tape
- Cardboard
- Wooden dowels of various sizes
- Craft sticks
- Pipe cleaners
- Paper tubes
- Paper
- PVC pipes of various sizes
- Clay
- Plastic cups
- Magnets
- Glue
Illinois Learning Standards:
4.A Listen effectively in formal and informal situations.
4.B Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience.
5.A Locate organize, and use information from various sources to answer questions, solve problems, and
communicate ideas.
6.A Demonstrate knowledge and use of numbers and their representations in a broad range of theoretical and
practical settings.
10.B Formulate questions, design data collection methods, gather and analyze data and communicate findings.
13.B Know and apply concepts that describe the interaction between science, technology and society.
Vocabulary:
Tool: an object designed to do a specific kind of work
Room Set-Up:
This activity can be done as a station with four children at a time.
Activity Directions:
This activity can be done individually, with partners, or in small groups.
- Discuss various tools in the classroom and how each is used (stapler, eraser, sponge, etc.). Record responses on the discovery chart.
- Review the concept that tools help people work more effectively Explain to the students that they will have an opportunity to create their own tool.
- Show students available materials they will be able to use.
- Prior to making their tools, instruct students to design their tools. They should generate a list of ideas for their tool. Q. How will the tool be used? Q. What will the tool look like? From the available materials, Q. What will they use to make their tool?
- Provide students time to make their tools. Take photos of students while they work which can be used for a follow-up activity.
- After making their tools, students should share them with the class.
Follow-up Activity:
Develop pictures taken during the activity. Provide each student with their picture(s) and a page to write about the tool he/she created. Assemble the completed sheets to make a class book or display. Additionally, a “Cool Tool Museum” could be created to display the students’ tools and writing.
Investigation Questions:
Q. What tools make it easier for the custodian to clean up spills? A. Mop, sponge etc.
Q. What tools do we use to make a snack? A. Measuring cups, measuring spoons, mixer, spoon, etc.
Q. What type of tools would help us build a house? A. Hammer, nails, screwdrivers, drills etc.
Q. What types of tools does a veterinarian use to care for animals? A. Scale, x-ray, syringe etc.
