Engineering design projects serve as great opportunities for collaborative problem solving. In this case, students work in small groups designing, building, and eventually testing a structure that meets a teacher-specified objective. It could be making the tallest tower, or creating a structure that can support the most weight. The lesson plan concludes with a discussion on the strengths and weaknesses of the different designs, making comparisons with real-world structures and practical applications. Consider setting a side one hour each week for this and other engineering design challenges, teaching young learners how to apply their knowledge and experience to creatively solve problems.

Concepts

engineering design, engineering, technology resources

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Additional Tags

engineering design, engineering challenge, building challenge, stem, building construction

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Pros

• Open-ended problem encourages learners to develop unique and creative solutions
• Provides suggestions for making cross-curricular connections with social studies and math

Cons

• A worksheet or graphic organizer may be needed to support young engineers with the design process
• Requires the collection of everyday items for use as building materials