This project was completed after reading The Tiger Rising by Kate DiCamillo and analyzing the figurative language used within the novel. Students then created metaphors of characters using Tinkercad and a 3D printer.

Supplies

Chromebooks/Computers

Tinkercad.com

Thingiverse.com

Step 1: Discuss Character Metaphors

First, students brainstormed characters from the novel, thinking of symbols, colors, and metaphors/similes that could be used to describe the characters.

Step 2: Demonstrate How to Create

I then showed the students a sample 3D metaphor I created of a character from another novel. I demonstrated how I built my metaphor on Thingiverse and Tinkercad. We discussed what my metaphor meant and how I could have added more to deepen the metaphor.

Step 3: Let Them Search and Build in Tinkercad

Next, I showed students how to search and download images within Thingiverse and put them together in Tinkercad. We practiced and worked on building a metaphor (not just finding 1 image, but rather compiling many images into one).

Step 4: Print

Once project were built on Tinkercad, they were checked over and sent to the 3D printer. Once printed, students added color with sharpies. Students were so excited to see their metaphors in real life.