After reviewing some architecture/ basic house structures, I allowed some of my 5th-8th grade classes complete freedom in designing their own gingerbread houses. Most of the students were very engaged and on task as they tried to fill their whole page with candy! Two- 30 minute sessions, the students came up with a lot of great details!
and... Spongebob! Had this up for a week or two. I'm so glad kids still like spongebob :)