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Through Unconstruct, students will uncover a problem and use the design thinking process to create a solution to that problem. Students will identify a user and learn to empathize with them, define a problem, ideate possible solutions, build prototypes of their solutions, and then test their prototypes to perfect them.
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Our 2024 Unconstruct challenge focuses on developing solutions to the challenge of reviving ocean life! Students will create a solution and design a prototype of that solution out of cardboard.
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Unconstruct
At a Glance
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Subject Area: Science, ELA, Social Studies
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Number of Lessons: 5+ (5 structured lessons plus additional design days)
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Topics: Environmental education, urban planning, sustainability
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Final Student Product: Students create 3D Cooling Park models and completed Innovators’ Compass.
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Supplies: Paper, pencil, BreakFree handouts (to be printed), drawing materials, optional technology (digital design, word processing device).
Teacher Resources
Once you register using the button above, you’ll receive a facilitation guide straight to your inbox with everything you need: lesson plans, student handouts, slide decks, contest details, and more.
Adjusting the curriculum to meet your students’ needs is strongly encouraged.
The link above is for google slides. If you need to submit using .ppt, click here for the template file.
2026 Calendar
Please note, the lesson days can be customized to best fit your school schedule.
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Winners
2022-2023
Our 2022 Unconstruct challenge focused on developing solutions for pedestrian safety. Students explored challenges within the pedestrian community and designed solutions after completing design thinking activities.
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2023-2024
Our 2023 Unconstruct challenge focused on developing solutions for pedestrian safety. Students explored challenges within the pedestrian community and designed solutions after completing design thinking activities.
1st Place
JJ, ZA, NB, & TW
CLC (MO)
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2nd Place
Group 8
MRJDC (FL)
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3rd Place
MC, AR, JT-R
Lakeside (MA)
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Honorable Mentions
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2021-2022
1st Place
Q and O
Donald E Long (OR)
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How Might We Statement:
How might we identify and produce a basketball mentorship home and healthy living sports program for both young men to live in and be mentored by successful elders, who also need a home. This home will provide a roof-top green living room, a pool, full court and gym, with the comforts of a modern family home with multiple rooms for a large range in who this home and program supports. The young men must love basketball, and agree to be mentored, and elders must be willing to mentor, all need a home and healthy space.
Photos courtesy of Motoya Nakamura, Multnomah County
2nd Place
E.B.
Spectrum Girls (MA)
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3rd Place
J.M. and E
Donald E Long (OR)
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2020-2021
1st Place
K.P.
RFK South Hadley (MA)
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How Might We Statement:
How might we find a way to ensure housing and other necessities for homeless teen runaways in order to make sure that they are safe & will be okay?
2nd Place (tie)
J.S., J.D., and B.P.
Southeast Secure Reception (MA)
2nd Place (tie)
M.H.
Davis Stuart (WV)
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