Summary
It's often said that there’s no place like home. But what if that home was built with a 3D printer? Only a handful of people in the U.S. currently live in these types of houses, but some believe this will soon change because of 3D-printing technology’s potential to reduce construction times and costs. Stephanie Sy reports.Five Facts
- Why do some people believe 3D printers will help construct housing?
- What problem does 3D printing of housing materials help solve?
- Who is interviewed in this piece? What is Habitat for Humanity, and what is the goal of the organization?
- When and Where did 3D printing become a way to assemble homes?
- How long might it be before 3D printing of buildings on a large scale becomes mainstream, according to this piece?
Focus Questions
Can you think of something in your life or community that could be made better or at lower cost through 3D printing? What would be the advantages? Who could it help? Media literacy: This piece offers an optimistic view of 3D printing as a solution to housing crises. But what might be some downsides?For More
Activity: As a class, in groups, or as individuals, brainstorm inexpensive, 3D printed structures that could help your community a better place for everyone. Ideas might include shelters for those who need them, ramps and other structures for those with disabilities or skate parks for young community members.- First, list problems that inexpensive building projects could help address.
- Then, sketch your design.
- Finally, share your designs and discuss ways they could work together or be improved.
Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning. Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources.
