Google SketchUp is 'HOT' at MCC Middle School
MCC Middle School Student are off and creating with an online CAD software program called Sketchup. SketchUp is a 3D modeling program designed for architects, civil engineers, filmmakers, game developers, and related professions. It also includes features to facilitate the placement of models in Google Earth. It was designed to be more intuitive, flexible, and easier to use than other 3D CAD programs.[1]
It is marketed as an easy-to-use conceptual tool with a simple interface. A well known feature in the SketchUp World is the 3D Warehouse. Users can use their Google Accounts to upload models, and then browse the 3D Warehouse for many components and models.
Some of its key features and uses include:
A "smart" drawing cursor (inference) system that allows users to draw 3D objects using a 2D screen and mouse. Simple massing study capability via "push-pull". "Follow Me," which creates 3D forms by extruding 2D surfaces along predetermined paths. Ability to animate camera and sun movements. Interoperability with Google Earth.
Student's Thoughts on Google SketchUp . . .
"SketchUp is awesome!" Skip Lange, 8th Grade
"Amazing, because you can create." Andrea Miller, 8th Grade
"You can design whatever you want and you can take anyones design and fabricate to anything you can think of." Alex Esquivel, 8th Grade
"Mr. Quinlan, this is fun!" Daniel Fugure, 6th Grade
"I liked that you can make your own houses and if you want to you can make your own city with other pictures (Google 3D)." Noah Gensen, 6th Grade
Beginners Guide/Video to Google SketchUp
Building a Basic House . . . Google Style
Mr. Quinlan's Sample SketchUp
| quinlan_sample.skp | |
| File Size: | 95 kb |
| File Type: | skp |
Related links reflecting Google SketchUp
http://sketchup.google.com/ (Download Google SketchUp)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SketchUp#Tools (Google Tools)
http://www.google.com/educators/p_sketchup.html (Google SketchUp for Educators)
