Blocks for Big Kids: KEVA Planks

My students love KEVA planks!!!!  

What are KEVA Planks? (visit http://www.kevaplanks.com/)

• Every building piece is the same. 
• KEVA planks are about 1/4 inch thick, 3/4 inch wide and 4 1/2 inches long.
•  No sorting or looking for special pieces
• You build structures by simply stacking the planks. 
• No glue or connectors.
• Easy clean up.
• Made of sturdy maple.

The only difference between the two sets below is the contraptions set has two balls and the manuals are different.  The contraption manual has some ways to set up ramps.  I have both sets.

Check out a video using the contraptions

My students' first challenge with KEVA planks was to build the tallest tower using 50 planks.  They all quickly built a tower looking like a Jenga game.  I walked around the room with a meter stick measuring and asking them to try another way.  How can we get them taller?  

I did this lesson with five classes and it was so much fun to watch the process in all of them.  As the time went on the towers got taller.  They figured out various ways to get height.

KEVA Planks are a great filler when students are finished their work before other groups.  I had them create bridges during our bridge unit.

I use KEVA Planks as a choice at Maker Space Club.  The possibilities are endless.

The Boston Children's Museum has an exhibit that is very inspiring.  

KEVA has an amazing website with information, lesson plans, building ideas, videos and much more.

Click to go to website