IMAGINE YOU ARE IN FRANKIE’S class. What kind of pet would you like to get? Just like Frankie and her friends, you can start by brainstorming a list of possible pets.
Pick one of the animals on your list. Does it meet all the parameters?
1. Fits in aquarium.
2. Costs less than $50.
3. Easily portable.
4. Able to be alone for the weekend— does not need to be fed every day.
If not, what could you design so that it could meet all the parameters and be your class pet?
If you chose a pet that already meets these parameters, can you think of something you could design for the animal to make its habitat more comfortable?
Follow the steps of the design process!
Start by researching a little bit about your animal. You can go to the library to check out nonfiction books or ask a grown-up to help you find good websites online.
Next, brainstorm your invention ideas.
Pick an idea and work on your design. You can start by sketching, like Frankie did, or look at what materials you have. Remember, you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to build a prototype. You can use recycled materials like cardboard and plastic bottles. If you have toys like LEGO bricks, you can use those, too.
Test your design. How does it work? One of Frankie’s attempts would have spilled food all over the rat! She needed to fix that part of her design. Rework your design to fix any problems.
Test again. Keep testing and retesting until you get it just right.
Now share your design with your friends, family, or teacher. They will be excited to see your work!