Teacher’s Guide
An Introduction to Technical Drawing
What are Orthographic and Isometric Drawings?
Orthographic Projection is a simple, precise way to show an object from three flat angles: the front, the side, and the top.
Isometric Projection is a way to draw an object in 3D so you can see multiple sides at once, almost like a photograph.
Why teach this to elementary students?
Learning these drawing styles gives students a "superpower" in technical communication.
It allows them to take an idea from their imagination and explain it clearly to others—a vital skill for future engineers, designers, and builders.
Getting Started
Here are some tips for Success. Before handing out the pencils, use this checklist to ensure your classroom is ready for a smooth, "no-stress" technology program.
Check Your Paper Supply
Most school photocopiers can handle 11” x 17” (Tabloid) paper. Check your stockroom for two reams of white paper in this size. If it’s not there, it’s worth the investment!
Budgeting
Talk with with your administrator about your "consumable budget." You’ll need roughly $5.00 per student to cover tools, instruments, and drawing supplies.
Find a Local Supplier
Look for a nearby building supply store that stocks 1/4” Masonite (also called "hardboard"). This is the secret to making durable, professional-feeling drawing boards.
Enlist Parent Volunteers
Send a letter home describing the project. You likely have a parent or grandparent with carpentry skills.
The Goal
Ask for help cutting a class set of 30 drawing boards (minimum 15-3/4” x 23-3/4”).
The Dream
If a volunteer can build you a rolling storage cabinet for these boards, you’ll have a resource that lasts your entire career!
Note
Save any Masonite scraps; they make great mini-chalkboards or drawing templates.
Tape Stations
You’ll need one roll of 2cm masking tape for every six students. Organize these in easy-to-reach spots, or encourage students to bring their own roll from home.
Student Kits
Ensure every student has:
A pencil and sharpener
A 30cm ruler
Scissors
A small box of pencil crayons (colored pencils)
Ready to begin?
Once your materials are organized, our first task will be creating our orthographic and isometric drawing templates!
An Introduction to Technical Drawing
What are Orthographic and Isometric Drawings?
Orthographic Projection is a simple, precise way to show an object from three flat angles: the front, the side, and the top.
Isometric Projection is a way to draw an object in 3D so you can see multiple sides at once, almost like a photograph.
Why teach this to elementary students?
Learning these drawing styles gives students a "superpower" in technical communication.
It allows them to take an idea from their imagination and explain it clearly to others—a vital skill for future engineers, designers, and builders.
Getting Started
Here are some tips for Success. Before handing out the pencils, use this checklist to ensure your classroom is ready for a smooth, "no-stress" technology program.
Check Your Paper Supply
Most school photocopiers can handle 11” x 17” (Tabloid) paper. Check your stockroom for two reams of white paper in this size. If it’s not there, it’s worth the investment!
Budgeting
Talk with with your administrator about your "consumable budget." You’ll need roughly $5.00 per student to cover tools, instruments, and drawing supplies.
Find a Local Supplier
Look for a nearby building supply store that stocks 1/4” Masonite (also called "hardboard"). This is the secret to making durable, professional-feeling drawing boards.
Enlist Parent Volunteers
Send a letter home describing the project. You likely have a parent or grandparent with carpentry skills.
The Goal
Ask for help cutting a class set of 30 drawing boards (minimum 15-3/4” x 23-3/4”).
The Dream
If a volunteer can build you a rolling storage cabinet for these boards, you’ll have a resource that lasts your entire career!
Note
Save any Masonite scraps; they make great mini-chalkboards or drawing templates.
Tape Stations
You’ll need one roll of 2cm masking tape for every six students. Organize these in easy-to-reach spots, or encourage students to bring their own roll from home.
Student Kits
Ensure every student has:
A pencil and sharpener
A 30cm ruler
Scissors
A small box of pencil crayons (colored pencils)
Ready to begin?
Once your materials are organized, our first task will be creating our orthographic and isometric drawing templates!