3D printing provides a hands-on way for students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math. But how do you ensure your classroom projects align with national or regional STEM standards like the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)? In this article, we’ll map out some best practices.

Step 1: Identify the Relevant Standards

• NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards)
  • Look for performance expectations involving engineering design, modeling, and problem-solving (e.g., 3-5-ETS1, MS-ETS1).
• Common Core Mathematics
  • Projects that focus on geometry, measurements, and ratios can easily integrate 3D printing tasks.
• Local/Regional Standards
  • Many districts have specific frameworks or learning outcomes. Match your project objectives to the language of these guidelines.

Step 2: Design Projects with Clear Learning Goals

• Science & Engineering Practices
  • Require students to form hypotheses, make observations, and iteratively improve designs.
  • Example: Print and test small wind turbine blades; measure which designs generate the most power.
• Technology & Design Processes
  • Encourage students to model their ideas with CAD software.
  • Example: Use Tinkercad to create a prototype for a new invention that solves a real-world problem.

Step 3: Assessing Student Work

• Rubrics for 3D Projects
  • Include categories like “Design Intent,” “Accuracy of Model,” “Functionality,” and “Collaboration.”
  • Align each rubric criterion to a standard for transparency (e.g., “Uses evidence to design a solution—NGSS 4-ETS1-2”).
• Reflection & Documentation
  • Have students document each iteration and reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how they improved.
  • Portfolios or project journals can tie back to ELA standards for writing and communication.

Step 4: Cross-Curricular Connections

• Art & Design
  • Combine STEM standards with art class to create aesthetically pleasing prototypes or sculptures.
• History & Culture
  • Re-create historical artifacts or architectural models, then tie the project to a lesson on ancient civilizations.

Final Thoughts

Aligning 3D printing with curriculum standards doesn’t have to be complicated. By deliberately matching each step—idea generation, design, testing, iteration—to specific learning objectives, you’ll create a robust environment where hands-on learning meets academic rigor.