weekly

or for 6 classes

3D Printing, Coding, & Design

Completed by 2 learners

Ages 8-11

Live Group Course

In this 6-week BlocksCAD course, students use 3D modeling and block-based coding to explore CAD principles. They’ll learn coding basics, like loops and sequencing, to transform shapes into unique models—creating real-world objects.

Rhode Island Computer Museum

Average rating:

5.0

Number of reviews:

(4 reviews)

Live video meetings

1x per week, 6 weeks

2-9 learners per class

60 min

About Learning Overview Teacher Reviews

What's included

6 live meetings

6 in-class hours

Assignments

1 hour per week. included

Assessment

included

Class Experience

US Grade 3 - 5

See how the seemingly impossible is achieved with BlocksCAD, a software that combines 3D modeling and block-based coding. In this class, you'll explore basic computer-aided design (CAD) principles and learn the foundations of coding to create digital files and transform them into real objects! You will manipulate simple geometric shapes in a three-dimensional environment to make lots of amazing projects. As you build on introductory programming concepts, such as loops and sequencing, you will have fun making unique, personalized, three-dimensional designs, like a robot or nametag.

Learning Goals

Understand the interface and tools available in BlocksCAD.

Build basic shapes, including spheres, cubes, cylinders, and toruses.

Syllabus

6 Lessons

over 6 Weeks

Lesson 1:

Introduction to BlocksCAD

 In this lesson, students will explore how to navigate the BlocksCAD software interface, create 3D primitives like spheres and cubes, and understand Cartesian coordinates. They’ll learn to move shapes around in both the software and real-life contexts, using the Translate block to apply these skills creatively

60 mins online live lesson

Lesson 2:

Organizing Program Blocks and Describing Objects

 In this lesson, students will learn to organize their code by using comments and collapsing blocks, making their projects easier to manage. They’ll also practice describing shapes using everyday language, Lego pieces, and BlocksCAD, bridging hands-on play with digital design skills.

60 mins online live lesson

Lesson 3:

Rotation

 In this lesson, students will discover how to rotate shapes using the Rotate block in BlocksCAD. They will practice manipulating 3D models, enhancing their understanding of spatial relationships and design techniques.

60 mins online live lesson

Lesson 4:

Difference

 In this lesson, students will learn how to subtract shapes using the Difference block in BlocksCAD. They will explore the concept of shape modification, allowing them to create unique designs by removing parts of 3D models, enhancing their creative coding skills.

60 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Parental Guidance

The BlocksCAD software is appropriate for all ages and does not contain any content that requires a specific media rating. Third-Party Tool Information: Students will use the BlocksCAD platform, which requires an account to access. Parents should assist their children in creating a BlocksCAD account if needed. The tool will be used for 3D modeling exercises, and all activities will be conducted in a safe, guided online environment.

External Resources

In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:

BlocksCAD

Offered by

Rhode Island Computer Museum

Joined April, 2024

5.0

4reviews

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is dedicated to a dual mission, one that encompasses both education and the preservation of computing history. Our commitment to education lies at the heart of our endeavors, as we strive to provide enriching experiences that foster a deeper understanding of computing technology. RICM supports fun and meaningful opportunities to explore science and technology, make and tinker, foster online learning and development, and enjoy the wonders and power of technology.