Week 1 — 3D Basics & Navigation

Focus Concept: 3D space, camera controls and simple shapes
Mini-Project: Name Tag / Keyring

Connections to STEAM Learning

  • Computing: Exploring a 3D digital environment and learning how to move the camera.
  • Design & Technology: Creating a simple product for a user (a readable name tag).
  • Maths: Informal use of size, scale and position.
  • Art & Design: Choosing colours, layout and simple decoration.
  • Engineering: Thinking about thickness so objects are not too flimsy.

This week is all about getting comfortable in 3D space. Participants learn how to orbit, pan and zoom, then place, resize and combine a few simple shapes to make a personalised name tag or keyring.

Objectives

  • Understand that Tinkercad is a 3D space with x, y and z directions.
  • Use orbit, pan and zoom to look at a model from different angles.
  • Place and resize basic shapes on the workplane.
  • Combine a base shape and text to create a simple name tag or keyring.

Success Criteria

  • I can move the camera to see my model from different sides.
  • I can place shapes on the workplane and change their size.
  • I can make a name tag or keyring that clearly shows a name or initials.

Key Vocabulary

  • Orbit — moving the camera around a model to see it from different sides.
  • Pan — sliding the camera left, right, up or down.
  • Zoom — moving the camera closer to or further from a model.
  • Workplane — the flat “floor” where you place shapes.
  • Group — joining shapes together so they move as one object.

Part A — Explore the 3D Space

  • Show the difference between orbit, pan and zoom using a simple cube.
  • Let participants drop a few shapes onto the workplane and practise looking at them from different angles.
  • Highlight how the view cube and home view buttons help if they feel “lost”.

Part B — Make: Name Tag / Keyring

  • Add a flat base shape (box or cylinder) and resize it so it could fit as a small tag.
  • Add text shapes for a name or initials; resize so the text is readable.
  • Optional: add a small cylinder or hole near the edge for a keyring loop.

Encourage them to think about a real user — themselves, a friend or a family member.

Part C — Extend & Share

  • Add one or two simple decorations (symbols, small shapes) without over‑complicating the model.
  • Invite a quick “mini gallery” where learners show their tag and explain who it is for.

Resources

Equipment

  • Laptops / Chromebooks with internet access and Tinkercad accounts
  • Mouse for each device (highly recommended)
  • Projector or large screen for live demo

Safety & Setup Notes

  • Check logins before the session so time is not lost.
  • Encourage good posture and short breaks from the screen when needed.
  • If you plan to print later, remind participants that tiny details might not print well.