Large or small, bridges are architectural wonders! Construct a large-scale cable-stayed bridge during a whole class project. Scholars work in groups to erect the towers, build the roadway, and secure the cables of their very own bridges. Supporting materials provide you with discussion questions, important vocabulary, and ideas for implementation.

Concepts

compression, bridges, engineering design, civil engineering, valleys, rivers, making observations, pythagorean theorem, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Have pupils help prepare the materials in the days leading up to the build
• Use the bridge's cables as a real-world application of the Pythagorean Theorem
  

Classroom Considerations

• Plan to execute the activity in a large space
• Make sure teams have specific jobs to prevent the class from losing focus
  

Pros

• Detailed instructions and diagrams make execution of the project simple
• Extension activities let you customize the project to specific goals and standards
  

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.6-8.3