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3-D Model

A 3-D model or diorama is a great way to show how all the parts of a system work together.

Prepare your information

What is your main system or process that you are showing?

What are the most important elements of this system or process?

What are any scientific or technical terms that you should define on the poster?

What is the main illustration or diagram that will be at the center of your poster?

What is the “catchy title” that will draw interest to your poster?

Requirements

Every major part of your model must be labeled. You can use toothpick flags, printed stickers, or a numbered key.

Summary Card: Include a printed sheet of paper that explains:

What the model represents.

What materials you used for specific parts (e.g., “The blue marbles represent electrons”).

The most important “fact” the model demonstrates.

Functionality: If your model has moving parts (like a pulley system or a lung model with a balloon), it must function correctly during the demonstration.

Recommendations

Labels must be readable from at least 3 feet away. Use a clean, bold font or very neat handwriting.

Your model should be sturdy enough to be transported to school without falling apart. Hot glue or strong school glue is better than tape.

Neatness: Avoid “glue globs” or messy paint lines.

Creativity: Bonus points are often given for using unique materials in clever ways (e.g., using a sponge to represent a cell membrane).

Base/Stand: Your model should have a solid base (like a piece of plywood or heavy cardboard) so it doesn’t roll away or tip over on the display table.