Math Projects

• Math and geometry are probably the most obvious application for a project using blocks. Sixth-graders should be well-versed in the basic shapes of geometry. Have your students make a large object using blocks and calculate its surface area. Ideally, students should use blocks of different shapes to make an object such as a fire hydrant, a dog or a person. Ask your students to calculate the surface area of each block using a ruler and the proper formula, then add the areas of all the blocks together.
  
  

Art Projects

• Blocks also lend themselves to projects that involve your students' artistic abilities. Sixth-graders should have plenty of imagination to use blocks in a creative way. Have your students build a model of their dream home using blocks. Students can make the model in any way they choose and present it to the rest of the class. Alternatively, show a picture of a famous painting to the class and have students use blocks to make their own version of it, interpreting it in any way they like.
  
  

Science Projects

• There are many science applications for blocks. Have students design a carnival knock-down-the-blocks game that gives the player low odds of winning. Have students stack blocks in different ways and practice throwing a ball at them, measuring each time how far the blocks move. Ask students to repeat the experiments over and over again, keeping track of measurements and determining how to make a "fixed" carnival game. Students should write conclusions that consider how velocity, mass, gravity and other factors help determine the outcomes of their experiment.
  
  

Other Projects

• There are various possible sixth-grade block projects that fit into different categories. Have your students use blocks to make large movable poetry. Students should write one word on each block and practice arranging and rearranging them to form funny, inspirational and meaningful phrases. Students can also use blocks to make a giant jigsaw puzzle. Students should make a giant rectangular drawing, cut it into small squares and tape each square to a block.