Empowering Local Musicians: Design and Build Project
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design and build durable, portable music equipment and a supporting brand to empower local musicians in outdoor performances, festivals , farmers markets and venues?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How does accessible equipment impact a musician's ability to perform locally?
- What design considerations are important when building equipment for outdoor music performances?
- How can we create stands and organizers and cases that make it easier to transport organize and set up for performances?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will design and prototype portable, durable mic stands, cable organizers, or instrument gear.
- Students will understand the impact of accessible equipment on a musician's ability to perform.
- Students will learn about design considerations for outdoor music performances.
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsMusic Gear 'Shark Tank'
A local music store owner presents a 'Shark Tank'-style pitch, seeking student designers to create innovative solutions to common problems musicians face. Students become the 'investors' and designers.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.Prototype Performance Challenge
Students build a prototype of their chosen design, testing its durability, portability, and functionality in an outdoor setting.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA functional prototype of the designed product and a performance test report detailing its strengths and weaknesses.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsFocuses on learning about design considerations for outdoor music performances and prototyping portable, durable equipment.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioLocal Music Scene Support - Prototype Assessment
Design and Testing
Focuses on the depth of understanding and application of design principles.Understanding of Impact
Understanding of how accessible equipment impacts a musician's ability to perform locally.
Exemplary
4 PointsDemonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how accessible equipment significantly enhances a musician's ability to perform locally, providing innovative solutions and insights.
Proficient
3 PointsDemonstrates a thorough understanding of how accessible equipment enhances a musician's ability to perform locally, providing practical solutions.
Developing
2 PointsShows an emerging understanding of how accessible equipment relates to a musician's ability to perform locally, with some basic solutions.
Beginning
1 PointsShows a beginning understanding of the topic, struggling to connect accessible equipment with a musician's local performance abilities.
Design Application
Application of design considerations for building equipment suitable for outdoor music performances.
Exemplary
4 PointsApplies design considerations innovatively, creating a highly functional and durable prototype optimized for outdoor performances.
Proficient
3 PointsApplies design considerations effectively, creating a functional and durable prototype suitable for outdoor performances.
Developing
2 PointsApplies design considerations inconsistently, resulting in a prototype with some functionality for outdoor performances.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to apply design considerations, resulting in a prototype that is not suitable for outdoor performances.
Prototype Quality
Focuses on the physical attributes of the prototype, evaluating its durability, functionality, and craftsmanship.Prototype Durability
Durability and portability of the designed prototype.
Exemplary
4 PointsPrototype is exceptionally durable and highly portable, exceeding expectations for outdoor use.
Proficient
3 PointsPrototype is durable and portable, meeting the requirements for outdoor use.
Developing
2 PointsPrototype shows some durability and portability but has limitations for outdoor use.
Beginning
1 PointsPrototype lacks durability and portability, making it unsuitable for outdoor use.
Prototype Functionality
Functionality and practicality of the designed prototype.
Exemplary
4 PointsPrototype is highly functional and practical, offering innovative solutions for musicians' needs.
Proficient
3 PointsPrototype is functional and practical, effectively addressing musicians' needs.
Developing
2 PointsPrototype has limited functionality and practicality, with some usability issues.
Beginning
1 PointsPrototype lacks functionality and practicality, failing to meet musicians' needs.
Craftsmanship
Overall craftsmanship and attention to detail in the prototype construction.
Exemplary
4 PointsExhibits exceptional craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a high-quality finished product.
Proficient
3 PointsExhibits good craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in a well-made finished product.
Developing
2 PointsShows basic craftsmanship and some attention to detail, but the finished product has noticeable flaws.
Beginning
1 PointsLacks craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in a poorly made and unfinished product.
Team Collaboration
Focuses on the student's ability to work effectively and contribute positively within a team.Collaboration and Teamwork
Contribution to team effort, communication, and respect for team members.
Exemplary
4 PointsConsistently demonstrates exceptional collaboration, proactively contributing ideas, and fostering a positive team environment.
Proficient
3 PointsDemonstrates effective collaboration, contributing ideas and working cooperatively with team members.
Developing
2 PointsShows some collaboration skills, but struggles to consistently contribute or communicate effectively within the team.
Beginning
1 PointsDemonstrates poor collaboration skills, failing to contribute or communicate effectively within the team.