The 'Why': How can we get a 3d image in our head on to paper?
This lesson starts with an exercise about identifying different famous landmarks from different views. This gets students to think about how to view 3d objects from different viewpoints.
Then there is a thought experiment about getting students to imagine a 3d image in their heads. Students should close their eyes and try to picture the images that you read out on the board. This works particularly well if you guide them using the prompt questions. What should happen is that what they are picturing shifts in their minds eye. There are then some suggestions of what this may have looked like. It's always fun to take some hands at this point. (I've had students view the number 5 for example in neon lights like it were above a bar or as 5 little ducks about to jump in to a lake!!) It's important to note that approximately 3% of the population will be unable to do this thanks to a phenomenon called aphantasia. Show the video on this as it's genuinely interesting.
Following this is an explanation of how this 3d shape can be projected on to pieces of paper. When these pieces of paper are folded out flat, they create a plan and an elevation. They can then be used to manufacture things in the form of technical drawings and there is a slide showing some examples of this.
There are then some plans and elevations and students must identify the 3d shape they think matches. This can be done with mini whiteboards or with fingers (1,2,3) if this is easier. Students should then try sketching the plans and elevations based on a given shape. There are two examples. One for you to model and one for the students to try followed by some practice.
They are then shown how 3d models could be generated from plans and elevations. Call students back to the starter task where you asked them to imagine the shape in their heads. What shape are you asking them to imagine now? Typically, where students fall down here, is their drawing ability. If isometric paper is available, this helps greatly (although, do still model how to use it!)
Towards the end, there are some problem solving activities which could be done on mini whiteboard or with cold calling around the class. The goal of this is to get tables or rows of students to agree on the answers and generate discussion. Lastly, if there is time, students could attempt to produce their own technical drawing. They should attempt something easy and ideally, square in shape such as a calculator or a phone.
Activities included:
Landmarks starter
A thought experiment and Aphantasia
3d Projection
Commercial uses for plans & elevations
Different elevations
Adding more detail
What is the shape?
How to sketch each view
3d Models from Plans
Problem Solving
Drawing Real Things