Gather, create, and learn. Those are the goals of the MakerSpace movement. Teach classroom concepts by allowing students to use their hands to build a project and have fun in the process. Use technology or common household items.
Projects:
Garage Band: Garage Band is an app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers that allows the user to create and record a wide range of music and sounds.
Origami: How to make a paper cup that holds water.
Paper Structure Challenge: Create a paper structure that holds the weight of a toy
Repurposed Puzzle Pieces: This puzzle piece snowflake is an example of a low-cost MakerSpace project that can be completed by re-purposing materials.
Stop Motion: Using the stop motion app called “Stop Motion Studio,” create a stop motion video using still photos, characters, backdrops and sounds.
Finger Knitting: Finger knitting is a simple way students as young as 6 can create a piece of knitting without any costly tools.
iMovie: Students utilize their creative writing skills by use the iMovie trailer tool to create a story.
Yarn Lucet: Use a plastic fork to create an ancient tool to make a simple cording from string or yearn.
Craft Stick Bridge: Students experiment to create the strongest structure possible
Craft Stick LED Flashlight: Make your own flashlight using simple items from the MakerSpace cart and learn the basics of LED circuitry.
Parallel Circuits LED Light up Card: Why buy a boring old greeting card when you can make a light up card!
Make Your Own Games: Students use items from the MakerSpace cart to create games for each other to play.
Code.org: Computer Science is a growing field.Learning to code is fun and there are resources out there for beginners.
Tynker: Another coding project for beginners.
Helpful Links
Pool Noodle Marble Run: Build your own marble roller coaster.
Ensure That Making Leads to Learning SLJ: Article on how to ensure your project leads to learning.
School Library Journal Article: Small Tech, Big Impact: More on designing your MakerSpace.
Library MakerSpaces: MakerSpace projects for your school library program.
Make it @ Your Library: More school library MakerSpace projects.
How to Incubate Creativity in School Through Making and Discovery: Teaching strategies on MakerSpace Projects.
Maker Buckets: Make a Makerbucket part of your classroom.
How Libraries Fit in the Future of Learning: Article on turning traditional libraries into MakersSpaces.