Knights Showcase STEM Know-How with Play-Doh Prototypes

Before the school year came to a close, Bala Cynwyd Middle School sixth graders took on a fun-filled design challenge that put their engineering skills to the test!

Students were tasked with redesigning and 3D printing a Play-Doh tool, and throughout the project, they took full ownership of both the design and manufacturing process. Each student created and 3D printed their tool—often multiple times—recognizing that iteration and failure are critical parts of engineering.

What made this experience especially exciting is that students made real digital manufacturing decisions, such as adjusting print density, orientation, layer thickness and other key 3D printing settings that impacted both the function and outcome of their tools.

Students then tested each other’s 3D-printed designs in class using Play-Doh. The Knights provided meaningful, constructive feedback to support future redesigns.

Under the leadership of STEM teacher Jessica Perfetto, students made the most of this educational opportunity—showcasing their creativity, problem-solving and technical skills in full force!