Bridge the Gap

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Learners work in groups to construct bridges using stale marshmallows and toothpicks. They build bridges inspired by various designs, and then test the strength of the bridge by weighting it down with pennies until the bridge fails. The lesson plan includes handouts, background information about different styles of bridges, suggested extension activities, as well as a mini-biography of a bridge operations administrator.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
1 to 7 days
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Mini marshmallows
  • Round toothpicks
  • Cups
  • Spaghetti style pasta
  • Rulers
  • Manila folders, card stock, or cardboard (at least 8½” by 11”)
  • Pennies
  • Pencil
  • Marker
  • Materials to photocopy: Science Background and Student Procedure (1 per group)
  • Demo: 6 Popsicle sticks or tongue depressors
  • Demo: 4 brads
  • Demo: Rubber band
  • Demo: Tool to make holes in Popsicle sticks (e.g., drill or hammer and nail)
  • Optional: Straws
  • Optional: Clay
  • Optional: Styrofoam peanuts
  • Optional: Gumdrops

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
      • Transportation Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Problem Solving

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking
  • Model Building
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Source:

  • NASA