The Tallest Tower

One of the projects that the class has participated in during the past couple of weeks introduced them to the Engineering Design Process.  They learned that engineers go through this process to design solutions to problems using math and science. 

First, we learned the six steps that engineers go through as they solve complex problems.  Step one required students to identify  their problem (to build the tallest tower).  Next, they were given the criteria and constraints.  Each team was given 25 index cards.  They could bend and/or fold the cards, but could not use tape or any other material to build their tower.  They brainstormed possible solutions and then selected an approach.  After they built their tower, they evaluated and redesigned their model.

This activity covered several Performance Indicators under Science Standard 5:  Engineering.  It also covered Transferable Skill 4:  Working Independently and Collaboratively. Below are some photos from the activity.