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Community Corner

Exploring the Design Process

Children are eager model builders

Last column we looked at how materials connect to learning early math skills of size, spacial relationships and pattern. This week we will continue to look at math/art connections by exploring the design process as it relates to architecture and engineering. Kids are natural builders; encouraging them to draw or create a map of their constructions is an important way to explore the design process.

Architects and engineers work with plans to solve design and construction problems. They also build scale models to test ideas for building. Children are eager model builders, and we can extend this skill through practice drawing plans or diagramming favorite creations. When kids draw what they have built, they build observation skills by noticing the shapes of the parts and how the parts connect to each other in space. Having the opportunity to create a drawing of  a favorite construction invites children to reflect on the design and to explore point of view. How does the construction look from the side as opposed to from overhead? Are there ways to draw so it appears more 3D; how can parts be represented that are behind or inside other parts? Children's early drawings explore many ways to solve these dilemmas. Drawings from a birds-eye view are popular as are X-ray drawings where we can see both the inside and the exterior of a structure. Often the drawing will lead to new ideas for characters or a story for a built environment.  

Kids may also enjoy drawing a plan or blueprint for a new structure. A plan drawing can help assess materials needed as well as possible attachment strategies. Plans are a great connection to projects around the house too, especially as the weather gets warmer. If you are planning to rearrange a room, design a backyard play set or plant a garden; encourage kids to be part of the design process by sketching plans. Having a set of several possible plan drawings can help a family discuss and make decisions about a new construction or planting.

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Drawings and designs can be revised and become working diagrams complete with measurements, labels and lists of parts needed. So often we think of drawing as a form of art and as a skill restricted to artists.  In fact, drawing is an important visual language for architects, engineers, and many other designers. Participating in the design process can also help kids become more aware of the work that went into the many pieces of the built environment around them. You may even find your family starts looking for ways to improve the design of your environment based on your explorations!

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