Addition by Subtraction - Making Historic Markers in Philadlephia
This workshop will show you how I created historic markers with students using subtractive manufacturing. You will have the opportunity to create your own marker using cardboard and markers or to have some of my students help you create a design you can purchase on HDPE (like the samples). I will share all resources for this project with teachers.
SLA Middle School Pre-Engineering
Science Leadership Academy Middle School is a public 5-8 located on the edge of Drexel's campus in University City. At SLA Middle School, all students take Pre-Engineering and learn the engineering design process and applied math with power tools. This 4-year curriculum culminates in students doing capstone projects of their choosing in either the Tech or Pre-Engineering makerspace.
More Maker Info
https://slams.philasd.org/More Event Info
What inspired you to make this project?
This project is the second project of 7th grade and is our introduction to subtractive manufacturing. It allows students to learn the history of our great city and how to create something by removing material. Other examples of subtractive manufacturing include carving, whittling, or laser cutting.
Throughout our city, historical marker plaques are used to describe key locations that events have occurred at. These markers contain detailed descriptions about the event, person or location to help visitors gain insight about Philadelphia's rich history.
There are a lot of events that have occurred in our city’s history that don’t have plaques dedicated to them. Students create an historical marker for an event or location of their choice to continue to educate the public about Philadelphia’s history. Along with the plaque, they also need to create a summarized description of the event/location/person.
Student Reflection
“I love the historic marker project because it allows you to showcase your perspective of Philly. Through this project, you can put the unseen side of Philly on display. Your favorite parts of the city that aren’t usually represented in historic markers can now be featured in our school hallways. You can also choose which way you want to expand on your topic. This gives you an opportunity to create a podcast or poster about your favorite thing in Philly. Overall, this project incorporates lots of choice and creativity while still using the engineering design process.”