Explain whom architects work with and show some architect's tools. Students sit in a circle and one at a time are blindfolded. Bring in examples of architectural drawings and spread them out on the floor. Talk about the different drawings and what each one shows. Students write a description of their dream house and exchange descriptions with another student who acts as the architect.
Students then draw their classmate's house from the written description, adding embellishments.
Students have 20 minutes to write the description and have no restrictions on the type of drawing to create. They choose the drawing that they think will best communicate their design. Students explore the influences of climate and materials on Native American and Pioneer architecture, discussing cold climates, hot and wet climates, and hot and dry climates. Architect prepares a slide lecture showing indigenous architecture that responds to climate and early European-American buildings that similarly respond to climate. Tell students that their client now has to live in this different climate and that they have to adapt the specifics of the dream house to respond to the demands of the climate.