http://www.teachengineering.org/view_activity.php?url=collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_invent_a_backscratcher/invent_a_backscratcher.xmlactivitytext/xmlCenter for Engineering Education Outreach, backscratcherdesignschematicsketchsketchlever

Being able to recognize a problem and design a potential solution is the first step in the development of new and useful products. In this activity, students create a device to get "that pesky itch in the center of your back." Once the idea is thought through, students produce design schematics (sketches). They are given a variety of everyday materials and recyclables, from which they create back-scratching devices.

When engineers design a product, they must make sure that it meets the desired function, as well as consider other important aspects of the design for the user. Beyond being functional, in many cases the product should also be easy or comfortable to use, and aesthetically pleasing. Engineers also must take into consideration the cost of materials and labor, durability to withstand its intended use, and using as little material as necessary for the product. How to use creativity and everyday materials to build something useful.How to utilize designs and sketches in creating a product.0245TeachEngineering.orghttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_invent_a_backscratcher/student_worksheet.dochttp://www.teachengineering.org/collection/wpi_/activities/wpi_invent_a_backscratcher/student_worksheet.pdfS10267F9MassachusettsScience1.3 Identify and describe the safe and proper use of tools and materials (e.g., glue, scissors, tape, ruler, paper, toothpicks, straws, spools) to construct simple structures.-12S1002287MassachusettsScience2.1 Identify tools and simple machines used for a specific purpose, e.g., ramp, wheel, pulley, lever.-12S1026B0CMassachusettsScience2.2 Describe how human beings use parts of the body as tools (e.g., teeth for cutting, hands for grasping and catching), and compare their use with the ways in which animals use those parts of their bodies.-12United StatesCopyright 2012 - Center for Engineering Education Outreach, Tufts Universityhttp://www.teachengineering.org/policy_ipp.phphttp://www.teachengineering.org/2010-11-301Teacher