A 3D pen is like a glue gun, except it uses 3D printing filament and has a motor to control the flow. But unlike glue guns, the filament cools quickly and allows more detail so the user can build up a structure. It is the ultimate drawing tool allowing the user to create 3D objects out of thin air.
A 3D pen could be used in all subjects to enhance learning. Here are some ideas and links to get started.
- 3Doodler is the first company to produce a 3D pen, they have many ideas and tutorials on their website.
- Getting Started videos to learn how to do 3D pen basics – sort by “getting started”, then check out tutorials
- Step-by-step tutorials – a library of ideas and step-by-step instructions on how to make them
- 3Doodler app – with the iPad app, use templates to create 3D projects
- A beginner activity would be to create cookie cutters
- Flowers: Students learn about the basics of flowers, pollination, and different traits of flowers. The students then can create a 3D model of a flower showcasing their features and traits.
- Math: With the use of a 3D pen, students can draw geometric designs and then construct their own three dimensional shapes.
- Tessellations: Find or design a tessellation and print for a template. Use the 3D pen to trace the tessellation in different colors and then create an shape out of it, such as a pencil holder.
- Language Arts: Use a 3D pen to create a diorama as part of a book report
- Social Studies: Students can create an item to represent a place or time in history and combine that with a researched presentation.
- Animal Habitats: Using a 3D pen along with other building supplies, students can model animal habitats or survival traits.
- Space: Create a model of the solar system
- Chemistry: Create models of atomic molecules
- Erosion and Natural Disasters: Using building materials and 3d pens, design and create a structure that would prevent erosion or protect from natural disasters.
- Robotics: Use the 3D pen to create parts to attach to a robotics kit.
Anytime a standard asks for a the student to create a model of something, consider if it can be done with a a 3D pen.
There are many 3D pens available, so research would need to be done to find one suitable for your needs. If you would like to get a set of these to use in the classroom and would like help with funding, consider applying for a classroom grant from the STEM Action Center.