Core Skills Analysis
Mathematics
- Ivy measured liquid polymer and hardener using graduated cylinders, applying concepts of volume and capacity.
- She recorded the number of stickers created in each mold, practicing data collection and simple tally charts.
- Ivy compared the size of different sticker molds, using non‑standard units (e.g., "sticker‑lengths") to explore measurement and estimation.
- She calculated the ratio of polymer to hardener required for a successful mix, reinforcing fraction and ratio skills.
Science
- Ivy observed how a liquid polymer turns into a solid 3‑D shape, linking to the science of states of matter and polymer chemistry.
- She noted colour changes when mixing pigments, learning about light absorption and colour theory.
- The activity highlighted properties of materials—flexibility, elasticity, and durability—encouraging classification of matter.
- Ivy followed a cause‑and‑effect sequence (mix → pour → cure), reinforcing the scientific method of hypothesis and observation.
Language Arts
- Ivy read and followed step‑by‑step written instructions, developing comprehension of procedural text.
- She wrote brief descriptive labels for each sticker design, practicing concise technical writing.
- Ivy narrated a short story about the characters she created, strengthening narrative voice and imagination.
- She reflected on the process in a journal entry, practicing cause‑and‑effect language and personal reflection.
Art & Design
- Ivy chose colour palettes and patterns for her stickers, applying basic colour theory and design principles.
- She explored texture by creating raised, tactile surfaces, linking visual art to sensory experience.
- The activity required planning layout within each mold, fostering spatial awareness and composition skills.
- Ivy evaluated the aesthetic appeal of each sticker, practicing critique and self‑assessment.
Engineering & Technology
- Ivy engaged in the design‑build‑test cycle by creating prototypes, observing which molds produced the strongest stickers.
- She troubleshooted issues such as bubbles or uneven curing, applying problem‑solving strategies.
- The kit introduced basic concepts of materials engineering—selecting a polymer that hardens into a durable product.
- Ivy documented modifications for future batches, reinforcing iterative design thinking.
Tips
To deepen Ivy's learning, try a "Sticker Science Lab" where she measures curing time under different temperatures and graphs the results. Next, host a mini‑exhibit where Ivy presents her sticker designs and explains the material choices, integrating public speaking practice. Incorporate a math challenge by converting the liquid measurements into metric fractions and creating conversion tables. Finally, encourage Ivy to write a short comic strip starring her stickers, weaving together narrative skills with the visual designs she produced.
Book Recommendations
- Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty: A spirited girl uses imagination and engineering principles to build and test inventions, inspiring young makers.
- The Magic School Bus: In the Lab by Patricia Hegarty: Ms. Frizzle takes students on a lab adventure, exploring polymers, mixtures, and scientific investigation in a fun narrative.
- The Fantastic 3‑D Sticker Book by Katherine Smith: A collection of projects that guide kids through creating 3‑D stickers while learning geometry, colour theory, and storytelling.
Learning Standards
- Ontario Curriculum, Mathematics, Grade 5 – Number Sense and Numeracy (Measurement, Fractions, Ratios)
- Ontario Curriculum, Science and Technology, Grade 5 – Understanding Matter (Properties and Changes of Materials)
- Ontario Curriculum, Language, Grade 5 – Reading and Viewing (Procedural Text Comprehension)
- Ontario Curriculum, Language, Grade 5 – Writing (Technical Writing and Narrative)
- Ontario Curriculum, Visual Arts, Grade 5 – Creative Process (Design, Colour, Texture)
- Ontario Curriculum, Technological Education, Grade 5 – Design, Construction, and Evaluation (Iterative Design Cycle)
Try This Next
- Worksheet: "Polymer Ratio & Volume Tracker" – table for Ivy to log measurements, ratios, and resulting sticker counts.
- Design Challenge: Give Ivy a blank template to sketch a new sticker, then create a prototype and write a brief product pitch.