Meet Corky – The Maker Space Mascot That’s Sparking Creativity Across Classrooms
- steamsquadcv
- May 14
- 2 min read
Updated: May 19
If you’ve ever wished for a way to introduce design thinking, collaboration, and joyful learning into your classroom in a way that truly sticks—meet Corky. He’s not just a cork; he’s a full-on Maker Space Mascot in training, and the star of a unit that’s turning even the most hesitant students into confident creators.
What is the Maker Space Mascot Unit?
The Corky Unit is a hands-on STEAM experience where students are invited to design, build, and present their own version of Corky—a mascot that embodies the creative spirit of the Maker Space. Framed as a design challenge, students work through the design thinking process to determine if their Corky has what it takes to become the official studio mascot.
The design prompt? “How might we create a one-of-a-kind mascot to represent the creative spirit of our Maker Space?”
Why Students Love It
From the very first day, Corky captures students’ imaginations. They’re not just building something—they’re crafting a personality, a brand, and a voice for their Maker Space. They brainstorm sidekick ideas, invent future jobs for Corky, and even write persuasive letters trying to convince other corks to join the team.
This isn't just a craft. It’s character development, design iteration, material testing, math application, storytelling, and presentation skills rolled into one dynamic experience.
Why Teachers Love It
Teachers find this unit incredibly versatile. Whether you teach elementary or middle school, Corky meets students where they are. The challenges are differentiated across three levels:
Beginner: Focus on creativity, structure, and empathy for a classroom mascot.
Intermediate: Integrate math concepts like budgeting, measuring, and comparing materials.
Advanced: Use advanced problem-solving to assess durability, cost, and effectiveness of design choices.
It’s a perfect unit to introduce Maker Space behavior protocols, classroom expectations, and collaborative norms. Students learn to share materials, listen to peers, reflect on feedback, and iterate on their designs—all while laughing and learning with Corky.
What’s Included in the Unit?
✅ Differentiated Design Challenges
✅ Maker Mats and Planning Sheets
✅ ELA & Math Extensions (think: resumes for Corky, vision boards, material budgeting)
✅ Early Finisher Menus
✅ Exit Tickets, Rubrics & Reflection Tools
✅ Behavior Expectations & Studio Routines
✅ Visuals, Vocabulary Cards, and More!
How Corky Transforms Class Culture
The best part? Corky becomes a living part of your classroom or lab. Students refer to him throughout the year. They check in on his “projects,” include him in Maker Market budgets, and even use him as a reference during future design challenges.
Corky’s not just a mascot. He’s a spark. A bridge between play and purpose. And he’s ready to inspire your students, too.
Ready to bring Corky to life in your space? Click here to explore the full unit on Teachers Pay Teachers!
Follow my store for more project-based learning experiences, and don’t forget—every great Maker Space starts with a bold idea…and a cork with big dreams. 🧠🛠️✨
Product in action
Want to see classroom highlights from this unit? Click HERE
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