Grade Level: K-5
Subject Areas: Math, Engineering, Art, Science

Objective

Students will work collaboratively to design and build a 3D model of a city using Tytan Magnetic Tiles, integrating principles of engineering, geometry, and creativity.

Materials Needed

• Tytan Magnetic Tiles (assorted shapes and sizes)

• Paper and pencils for sketching designs

• Rulers

• Markers and sticky notes for labeling

• A large, flat surface for building

• Optional: small toy cars, figurines, or animals for added storytelling

Lesson Duration

45-60 minutes

Lesson Steps

1. Introduction (10 minutes)

1. Begin by showing students examples of cities and discussing their components: buildings, roads, parks, bridges, and landmarks.

2. Introduce Tytan Magnetic Tiles and explain how their shapes can be used to build 3D structures.

3. Highlight how this activity integrates STEAM skills:

   • Science: Structural stability

   • Technology: Creative problem-solving

   • Engineering: Building structures

   • Art: Designing an attractive city

   • Math: Geometry and spatial reasoning

2. Planning and Design (10-15 minutes)

1. Divide students into small groups (3-5 students per group).

2. Have each group brainstorm and sketch their city design on paper. Encourage them to include:

   • At least 3 buildings

   • 1 road or bridge

   • 1 open space (park, playground, etc.)

3. Students should label their designs and decide which Tytan Tiles they will use for each component.

3. Building the City (20-30 minutes)

1. Allow groups to start building their city based on their designs.

2. Circulate around the room to ask guiding questions:

   • "How will you make your building stable?"

   • "What shapes are you using for your roof or bridge?"

   • "How can you make your city unique?"

3. Encourage students to adjust their designs if needed, fostering adaptability and problem-solving.

4. Optional: Add storytelling by encouraging students to place toy cars, figurines, or animals in their city.

4. Presentation and Reflection (5-10 minutes)

1. Have each group present their city to the class:

   • Share what they built and how they used the Tytan Tiles.

   • Explain how they solved any challenges they faced.

   • Discuss how their city reflects STEAM principles.

2. Encourage peer feedback by asking questions like:

   • "What’s your favorite part of their city?"

   • "How could their design inspire your next project?"

Extensions

• Math Focus: Challenge students to measure the height, width, and perimeter of their buildings.

• Science Focus: Test stability by simulating an earthquake (gently shaking the surface).

• Art Focus: Use markers and sticky notes to create signs and decorate the city.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Understand the basics of city planning and 3D design.

2. Apply math and engineering concepts in a hands-on activity.

3. Collaborate effectively to achieve a common goal.

4. Develop creative problem-solving skills.

Share Your Creations on Instagram!

We’d love to see your classroom’s STEAM City! Share pictures of your creations on social media using the hashtag #TytanSTEAMCity and tag us at @TytanToys.