Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Activities
Introduction to Design Thinking - Students explore the stages of the design process through interactive storytelling, focusing on empathy and creativity. (20 min)
Empathy Mapping - Using stories from local librarians, students identify challenges faced by characters and create empathy maps to understand their needs. (40 min)
Ideation Workshop - Students brainstorm creative solutions to the challenges identified in previous stories, focusing on feasibility and empathy-driven design. (30 min)
Prototyping Lab Setup - Introduction to recycled materials and basic measurement skills, preparing students for hands-on model making. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps outlining challenges faced by book characters.
2. Brainstorm sheets featuring multiple creative solutions inspired by character challenges.
3. Initial prototypes using recycled materials that represent students' design ideas.
4. Peer feedback notes from the Gallery Walk, providing insights on prototypes.
5. Reflections on the design process and socio-emotional skills utilized during activities.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions with librarians.
2. Gather a diverse selection of books that feature characters facing challenges.
3. Organize materials for empathy mapping, including large sheets of paper, markers, sticky notes, and character profile templates.
4. Prepare ideation materials: blank sheets for brainstorming, writing utensils, and creativity prompts.
5. Collect recycled materials for prototyping, such as cardboard, plastic bottles, fabric scraps, and tape.
6. Develop a schedule for the Design Sprint Relay, ensuring smooth transitions between stations.
7. Create a Peer Review Checklist focusing on creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design.
Week 2
Day 3
Day 4
Activities
Design Sprint Relay: Empathy Mapping Station - Students dive deeper into character challenges by rotating through empathy mapping stations, analyzing diverse characters' needs and motivations. (20 min)
Ideation Station - Students brainstorm innovative solutions, drawing inspiration from empathy maps, and begin sketching initial ideas in their design journals. (40 min)
Prototyping Lab: Recycled Materials Exploration - Students experiment with various recycled materials, considering their potential use in creating models of their design ideas. (30 min)
Prototype Sketching and Planning - Students draft detailed plans for their prototypes, incorporating measurements and material constraints, preparing for hands-on model creation. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completion of empathy mapping sheets where students identify challenges faced by characters.
2. Brainstormed list of creative solutions for identified character challenges from ideation phase.
3. Tangible prototype models created during the Prototyping Lab using recycled materials.
4. Peer Review Checklist completed during the Gallery Walk, providing specific feedback to peers.
5. Revised designs based on feedback received during Prototype Testing Day.
6. Self-reflection journals documenting students' learning process, insights gained, and design iterations.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions with librarians.
2. Gather diverse storybooks featuring various cultural backgrounds and challenges.
3. Prepare stations for the Design Sprint Relay with necessary materials: empathy mapping sheets, ideation boards, prototyping tools.
4. Collect recycled materials for prototyping lab, ensuring a variety of options for creative designs.
5. Create Peer Review Checklists focusing on creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design.
6. Set up a space for the Gallery Walk, ensuring ample room for student presentations and peer feedback.
7. Prepare feedback forms for Prototype Testing Day.
Week 3
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Storytelling Session - Local librarians share diverse cultural stories, inspiring students to identify character challenges for creative solution brainstorming. (20 min)
Character Challenge Analysis - Students work in groups to discuss and analyze the challenges faced by characters from the stories shared, focusing on empathy and problem definition. (40 min)
Design Sprint Relay: Ideation Station - Building on character challenge analysis, students rotate through ideation stations to brainstorm solutions, focusing on feasibility and empathy-driven design. (30 min)
Prototyping Lab: Material Exploration - Students experiment with recycled materials, considering their potential use in creating models of their design ideas, reinforcing measurement and geometry skills. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps that outline character challenges and initial solution ideas.
2. First iteration prototypes of design solutions using recycled materials.
3. Peer feedback notes from the Prototyping Lab session, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions.
2. Collect and organize a variety of recycled materials for prototyping (e.g., cardboard, plastic bottles, paper, fabric).
3. Prepare empathy mapping templates to guide students in identifying character challenges.
4. Set up the classroom with workstations for the Prototyping Lab, including tools like scissors, rulers, tape, and markers.
5. Create a Peer Review Checklist to help students give structured feedback on prototypes.
Week 4
Day 7
Day 8
Activities
Design Sprint Relay: Prototyping Station - Students rotate through prototyping stations, using recycled materials to begin creating tangible models of their Book Character Solution Kits. (30 min)
Peer Collaboration Session - Students work in pairs to provide feedback and suggestions on each other's prototype designs, focusing on creativity and empathy-driven solutions. (30 min)
Prototyping Lab: Construction Phase - Students continue building their prototypes, applying measurement and geometry skills to ensure accuracy and functionality. (30 min)
Prototype Testing Preparation - Students prepare to test their prototypes by drafting a list of criteria for success and constraints, based on the challenges faced by their chosen characters. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps and ideation sketches of potential solutions.
2. Prototypes of 'Book Character Solution Kits' created from recycled materials.
3. Feedback notes from peers during the Gallery Walk using the 'Peer Review Checklist.'
4. Reflections on design process and socio-emotional skills based on feedback received.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions.
2. Prepare stations for the Design Sprint Relay with materials for empathy mapping, ideation, and prototyping.
3. Gather recycled materials for the Prototyping Lab.
4. Create and distribute the 'Peer Review Checklist' for the Gallery Walk.
5. Set up space for the Gallery Walk and Prototype Testing Day.
Week 5
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Prototype Testing Day Introduction - Students discuss the importance of testing prototypes and set objectives for the day. (10 min)
Conduct Prototype Testing - Students test their Book Character Solution Kits against the criteria for success and constraints, observing functionality and effectiveness. (30 min)
Feedback and Reflection Session - Students receive structured peer feedback on their prototypes using the Peer Review Checklist, reflecting on how their designs address character challenges. (20 min)
Gallery Walk Preparation - Students prepare their prototypes for display, ensuring all elements are ready for peer and community feedback. (20 min)
Gallery Walk - Students present their prototypes, engaging in dialogue with peers to receive feedback and suggestions for improvement, focusing on creativity and empathy-driven design. (30 min)
Reflection and Revision Planning - Students reflect on feedback received during the Gallery Walk, planning revisions to enhance their prototypes. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps detailing character challenges and emotional insights.
2. A collection of brainstormed ideas and potential solutions recorded in student journals.
3. Prototype models of solutions, showcasing creativity and practical application.
4. Reflection notes on design process and socio-emotional skills utilized during activities.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local librarians to arrange storytelling sessions and select diverse stories.
2. Prepare empathy mapping templates and visual aids for students.
3. Gather recycled materials for prototyping, ensuring a variety of shapes and sizes.
4. Set up workstations with necessary tools such as scissors, tape, rulers, and markers.
Week 6
Day 11
Day 12
Activities
Reflection and Peer Review Preparation - Students finalize any revisions based on feedback from the previous Gallery Walk and prepare their prototypes for further peer review. (15 min)
Peer Review Session - Students use the Peer Review Checklist to provide and receive specific feedback on creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design during small group discussions. (25 min)
Revision Planning - Students reflect on peer feedback and identify areas for improvement, drafting a revision plan to enhance their Book Character Solution Kits. (20 min)
Prototyping Lab: Iteration Phase - Students begin implementing revisions to their prototypes based on peer feedback, focusing on improving design elements and functionality. (30 min)
Reflection and Documentation - Students document changes made during the iteration phase and reflect on the design process, noting what was successful and what could be improved. (20 min)
Preparation for Storybook Solutions Fair - Students prepare presentation elements for the upcoming Storybook Solutions Fair, ensuring they can explain their design process and the real-world applications of their projects. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps for several characters from the stories presented, highlighting challenges and insights.
2. A list of brainstormed solutions for each character's challenge, documented in student design journals.
3. Initial prototypes using recycled materials, reflecting their ideation and empathy mapping work.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions and ensure the librarian is prepared to discuss diverse cultural tales.
2. Gather and organize recycled materials for prototyping, ensuring a variety of tools and supplies such as cardboard, plastic bottles, fabric scraps, and tape are available.
3. Prepare empathy mapping templates and ideation worksheets for students to use during the design sprint.
4. Set up stations for the Design Sprint Relay, ensuring each station has necessary materials and clear instructions.
5. Create a 'Peer Review Checklist' that students will use to guide feedback during the Gallery Walk in the coming weeks.
Week 7
Day 13
Day 14
Activities
Storytelling Inspiration Session - Local librarians share stories focusing on diverse characters and their challenges, igniting students' creativity and empathy. (20 min)
Problem Identification Workshop - Students analyze the character challenges presented in the stories, defining the problem they aim to solve with their Book Character Solution Kits. (30 min)
Initial Ideation Session - Students brainstorm initial solutions to the identified character challenges, sketching ideas in their design journals. (10 min)
Design Sprint Relay: Ideation Station - Students rotate through ideation stations, developing their initial ideas into more detailed solutions, focusing on creativity and empathy-driven design. (30 min)
Prototyping Lab: Advanced Techniques - Introduction to advanced prototyping techniques using recycled materials, enhancing students' skills in creating functional models. (20 min)
Sketch and Plan Revisions - Students refine their prototype sketches and plans based on new insights from the advanced techniques session, preparing for further model development. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed empathy maps for selected book characters, showcasing identified challenges and character needs.
2. Brainstormed list of potential solutions for character challenges, documented through mind maps or sketches.
3. Initial prototypes created using recycled materials, demonstrating basic design concepts and application of geometry skills.
4. Peer feedback collected using the Peer Review Checklist, providing insights for further iteration and refinement.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to arrange storytelling sessions and gather a diverse selection of stories.
2. Prepare empathy mapping templates and materials for students to use during the Design Sprint Relay.
3. Collect and organize recycled materials such as cardboard, plastic bottles, and fabric scraps for the Prototyping Lab.
4. Create and distribute a Peer Review Checklist for students to use during feedback sessions.
5. Set up a designated space for prototyping activities with necessary tools like scissors, tape, and rulers.
Week 8
Day 15
Day 16
Activities
Interactive Storytelling Session - Host a storytelling session with a local librarian, focusing on diverse character challenges to inspire empathy and creative thinking. (20 min)
Character Challenge Deep Dive - Students work in groups to analyze character challenges presented in the stories, discussing possible real-world applications of solutions. (20 min)
Initial Solution Sketching - Students brainstorm and sketch initial ideas for solutions to the identified character challenges, focusing on creativity and practicality. (20 min)
Design Sprint Relay: Empathy and Ideation - Students rotate through stations to expand on empathy mapping and ideation, refining their initial solution sketches with peer feedback. (30 min)
Prototyping Lab: Material Exploration - Experiment with recycled materials to explore innovative ways to construct functional models of their solutions. (20 min)
Plan and Sketch Refinement - Students refine their sketches and plans based on insights from the material exploration, preparing for the next iteration of prototypes. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Refined prototypes of Book Character Solution Kits created during the Prototyping Lab.
2. Completed 'Peer Review Checklists' from the Gallery Walk, containing feedback from peers.
3. Self-reflections from students on their design process and the socio-emotional skills used.
Preparation 1. Gather and organize recycled materials for the Prototyping Lab, ensuring a variety of options for student use.
2. Prepare a 'Peer Review Checklist' with criteria for feedback, including creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design.
3. Set up the classroom for the Gallery Walk, arranging space for students to display their prototypes.
4. Coordinate with local libraries if additional storytelling resources are needed for inspiration.
5. Ensure measuring tools and geometry resources are available for the Prototyping Lab.
Week 9
Day 17
Day 18
Activities
Prototype Refinement Session - Students implement the final revisions to their prototypes based on the latest peer feedback, focusing on enhancing functionality and aesthetics. (30 min)
Reflection and Documentation - Students write reflections on the design process, documenting the changes made and lessons learned throughout the project. (20 min)
Storybook Solutions Fair Preparation - Students organize and practice their presentations for the upcoming Storybook Solutions Fair, ensuring clarity and engagement. (10 min)
Mock Presentation Round - Students present their Book Character Solution Kits to small groups, receiving constructive feedback on presentation skills and content. (30 min)
Final Adjustments - Based on feedback, students make any last-minute adjustments to their prototypes and presentations, ensuring readiness for public display. (20 min)
Community Engagement Strategy - Students discuss how to engage visitors at the Storybook Solutions Fair, focusing on interactive elements and communication strategies. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Complete an empathy map that outlines challenges faced by characters in selected stories.
2. Create and present a tangible prototype in the Prototyping Lab using recycled materials.
3. Participate in the Design Sprint Relay, completing activities in empathy mapping, ideation, and prototyping stations.
4. Engage in the Gallery Walk, presenting prototypes and utilizing the Peer Review Checklist for feedback.
5. Reflect on the design process and socio-emotional skills developed, documenting insights in a journal or digital platform.
6. Revise prototypes based on peer feedback, preparing for the upcoming Storybook Solutions Fair.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with local libraries to schedule storytelling sessions with librarians.
2. Prepare a Peer Review Checklist focusing on creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design.
3. Gather a variety of recycled materials for the Prototyping Lab.
4. Set up stations for the Prototyping Lab and the Design Sprint Relay.
5. Organize the classroom space for the Gallery Walk, ensuring ample display and discussion areas.
6. Prepare reflection prompts for students to use during the Gallery Walk.
7. Ensure technology is available for students who wish to create digital prototypes or presentations.
Week 10
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Final Storytelling Inspiration - Local librarians share final stories, emphasizing character challenges that reinforce empathy and inspire creativity for last-minute improvements. (15 min)
Final Prototype Iteration - Students apply insights gained from storytelling to make final adjustments and enhancements to their prototypes, ensuring alignment with character challenges. (25 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Students finalize their presentation elements for the Storybook Solutions Fair, ensuring clarity, engagement, and interactive components. (20 min)
Gallery Walk and Peer Feedback - Students conduct a final gallery walk, presenting their prototypes and engaging in peer dialogue to receive and give last feedback on design and storytelling. (30 min)
Reflection and Documentation - Students complete final reflections on their learning journey, documenting the design process, challenges faced, and creative solutions developed. (20 min)
Community Engagement Strategy Finalization - Students refine their strategies to engage the community during the Storybook Solutions Fair, ensuring they can effectively communicate their projects' impact. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed Book Character Solution Kits ready for presentation.
2. Peer Review Checklists filled out with feedback from the Gallery Walk.
3. Reflective notes detailing how students plan to iterate and improve their designs based on peer feedback.
4. Revised Book Character Solution Kits that incorporate peer feedback and improvements.
5. A summary of new insights gained from the storytelling session, reflecting on how diverse narratives can inspire future projects.
Preparation 1. Set up a classroom space to facilitate the Gallery Walk, ensuring there is enough room for students to display their projects.
2. Prepare Peer Review Checklists with criteria such as creativity, practicality, and empathy-driven design for students to use during the Gallery Walk.
3. Coordinate with a local library to schedule a storytelling session and ensure transportation or virtual access if needed.
4. Gather materials for any last-minute adjustments students might need to make during the Design Revision activity.
5. Ensure all students have access to their previous feedback and reflection notes to guide their revision process.
Week 11
Day 21
Day 22
Activities
Storybook Solutions Fair Setup - Students arrange their booths and organize presentation materials for the Storybook Solutions Fair. (20 min)
Final Presentation Practice - Students rehearse their presentations, focusing on clarity, engagement, and communication strategies with peers. (20 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Conduct a final round of peer feedback on presentation skills, ensuring students are prepared for public engagement. (20 min)
Storybook Solutions Fair - Host the event where students present their Book Character Solution Kits to family and community members, explaining their design process and real-world applications. (30 min)
Interactive Engagement - Students engage with visitors, facilitating interactive elements at their booths and discussing the impact of their designs. (20 min)
Reflection and Celebration - Gather for a class reflection on the learning journey, celebrating achievements and discussing the impact of project-based learning. (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed Book Character Solution Kits.
2. Peer Review Checklists filled out with feedback from the Gallery Walk.
3. Reflection notes from students on their design process and project experience.
4. Presentation and explanation of prototypes during the Storybook Solutions Fair.
Preparation 1. Arrange space for students to set up displays and booths for the Gallery Walk and Storybook Solutions Fair.
2. Prepare Peer Review Checklists for students to use during the Gallery Walk.
3. Coordinate with local libraries and community members to attend the Storybook Solutions Fair.
4. Organize materials needed for final touch-ups on prototypes and displays.