Design a Problem-Solving Invention

Engineering enthusiasts are sure to explode in understanding as they practice the engineering design process (EDP). A container of "toxic popcorn" is placed in the classroom. Teams must work together to devise a method for removing it...

Planning a unit on simple machines? Save some time and energy with this collection of lessons and activities that explores how these devices are used in the real world to make life a little easier. 

What do you do to change arrival times of airplanes when a different route is not available? The fifth interactive in a series of six presents problems where pupils must find solutions to conflicts of safety rules. They must decide how...

Planning an elementary science unit has never been simpler! These twelve lessons guide young scientists through an exploration of simple machines and their many uses in the real world before asking them to apply their learning...

Engineering design makes the things we use every day possible. The video lesson highlights the criteria approach to optimizing a design solution. The narrator explains a sliding scale method to arriving at the best solution.

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...

Explore the meaning of an engineering problem-solving process. By defining specific world problems, the narrator emphasizes the importance of engineering in our world. He outlines the engineering process and connects the information to a...

Cyberchase video in which the CyberSquad uses the design process to create an invention that will help them navigate some tricky terrain. Includes background reading and discussion questions. [3:52]

Tomorrow's engineers visit an intriguing website about inventions that have changed the way we live. Biographies of child inventors on the suggested website aren't easy to find, so make sure to find some stories to share in place of...

Students design their own playground equipment. In this design lesson, students take pictures of equipment they like and make a class pictograph of their favorite ones. They investigate the design, research equipment around the world,...