Just before Thanksgiving we finished our science unit on structure and function.  Students were challenged to design a new and better paint brush.   Students were encouraged to think about what they would like their paintbrush to be able to do (function) and then they drew a picture to match their idea (design).  Once they had a sense of the paintbrush they wanted to create they chose from a variety of materials to begin creating their final product.   Finally they were given an opportunity to try out their brushes.  After testing their paintbrushes and seeing other student's designs  we discussed  changes they might make if they were to build another paintbrush.  This was an extremely fun and engaging task.