Instructables

In one of the various blogs, flyers, websites I visited, I recently learned about this website which I would categorize as a "maker site" because it focuses on the student creating something.  I was initially drawn to it because of the Lego logo, and who doesn't love Lego?  I have two boys - ages 5 and 8 - so this is a Lego household, complete with Lego landmines strewn throughout the house.
The actual website is similar to Pinterest in that anyone can submit ideas for inclusion onto the website, but it has various categories.  Of particular interest to us will be the Instructables Education section.



Here is a highlight from each section to get you started:

Altoids Tin Pocket Abacus
Credit Card Machine Lino Printing
Make Your Own Silver
Tweeting Weather Station
Rubber Band Kazoo
Pringle Can Midi Drums
Arduino Claw Machine
Customizable Marble Machine
Pogo Stick

You can also search by grade span, or do a search.

Maker cultures focus on idea exploring, creation, and imagination as a hobby. This website would allow you to consider some ways to incorporate it into your class.

“You do have to try, learn, and improve. You do have to put yourself out there and risk failure. But in this new world, you don’t have to go bankrupt if you fail because you can fail small. You can innovate as a hobby. Imagine that: a nation of innovation hobbyists working to make their lives more meaningful and the world a better place. Welcome to the maker revolution.” ― Mark Hatch, The Maker Movement Manifesto: Rules for Innovation in the New World of Crafters, Hackers, and Tinkerers