Getting Ready to Build
Create a PowerPoint presentation
based on recycling. Include information about local agencies that will pick
up or accept hazardous waste such as
computers, monitors, televisions, cell
phones, and any other electrical items.
Discuss other items that are currently
recycled such as
plastics, glass, cardboard, aluminum,
and other metals
and model recycling practices in
your classroom and
school.
Next, cut the
previously collected cardboard into
manageable sizes. The cardboard
may be painted with a scene, design,
or background color to make it more
interesting.
Amassing an adequate supply of
computer parts for several classes will
take some time, but is well worth the
effort. Most of the larger computer
lready have holes drilled into
them. If not, a regular drill will work,
and drilling may take place prior to
the lesson. Larger pieces may also
need to be cut down so they may be
used, something you might want to do
outside of class.
creating a three-dimensional robot
could be challenged to make parts of
their robots light up with a battery
and wires.
Interdisciplinary Connections
Science is a great subject to start with
for integration into this lesson. Some
of the themes that
can be connected
are ecology and
how pollution
can affect natural
functions; how
plastics and other
types of trash can
harm wild life; and
hydrology and how pollution can seep
into vital water sources. Language arts
and spelling may also be integrated
by having students create stories for
When designing creative
interdisciplinary lesson
plans for multiple age
groups, I consider all the
things that can be recycled
into useful art supplies.
their robots. Whatever subjects are
integrated into this lesson, students
will surely enjoy creating their very
own robots while learning about the
importance of recycling in our society.
Jacqueline M. Nelson is president-elect of
the Idaho Art Education Association.
mainelighthouse@cableone.net
NATIONAL STANDARD
Students apply media, techniques,
and processes with sufficient skill,
confidence, and sensitivity that their
intentions are carried out in their artworks.
WEB LINK
www.marionmartinez.com
A Robot Is Born
Attachment ideas for computer parts
include glue guns, old wire, or brads,
but safety must be a determining factor. All three methods can be combined based on the size and weight of
the computer pieces. Wire and brads
will require holes or slits to be cut
into the cardboard with X-Acto blades.
Glue guns may be used with supervision. It is wise to have cold water, ice,
and a first aid kit handy to treat accidental burns or cuts.
A Three-Dimensional Alternative
An alternative is to create a three-dimensional, freestanding robot.
Pieces can be hot glued, holes can be
pre-drilled, or a drill can be provided
to drill holes where students want
to attach the parts. Holes and wire
have better staying power for three-dimensional robots, as well as for
larger pieces on cardboard. Students
