Core Skills Analysis
Art
- The student likely enhanced their spatial reasoning skills by following the assembly instructions and manipulating the various parts of the flat pack.
- They may have developed their creative thinking by customizing the appearance of the assembled furniture, if there were options for personalization.
- The activity might have also improved their attention to detail as they had to carefully follow the step-by-step visual instructions provided.
History
- Through assembling the Ikea flat pack, the student may have learned about the history of flat pack furniture and how it revolutionized the furniture industry.
- They might have explored the origins of Ikea as a company and its impact on modern furniture design.
- The student could have gained insights into the cultural significance of DIY assembly and its historical context in terms of mass production and consumer trends.
Math
- Assembling the flat pack likely involved measurements and spatial awareness, allowing the student to apply mathematical concepts in a practical way.
- They may have honed their problem-solving skills by figuring out the correct placement of pieces and understanding the assembly process through diagrams.
- The activity could have reinforced the understanding of geometric shapes and angles through fitting pieces together.
Science
- The student may have engaged in hands-on learning about the properties of materials like wood and metal, as well as how different components fit together to create a functional piece of furniture.
- They might have explored concepts of stability and balance while assembling the flat pack.
- The activity could have introduced the student to basic engineering principles through the assembly of the furniture.
Tips
Engage the child in discussing the environmental impact of flat pack furniture and the sustainability practices of companies like Ikea. Encourage them to brainstorm creative ways to repurpose or recycle materials from flat packs to promote eco-friendly habits. Additionally, suggest engaging in small-scale DIY projects to further enhance their problem-solving and creativity skills.
Book Recommendations
- Ikea: How Ingvar Kamprad Built a Global Brand by Sara Kristoffersson: A biography highlighting the entrepreneurial journey of the founder of Ikea and the evolution of the company's flat pack furniture concept.
- The Art of Lego Design by Jordan Schwartz: Explores the creativity and engineering behind Lego constructions, offering insights into design principles and hands-on building projects.
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba: Inspiring true story of a boy who used his ingenuity to build a windmill from scrap materials, showcasing the power of innovation and perseverance.