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Linkages
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This design challenge is an open-ended exploration of linkages, a group of parts connected by hinges, and the types of motion they can create.

The Shape of Floatation
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In this activity (on page 2 of the PDF under GPS: Sailboat Design Activity), learners will discover how the shape of an object, not just its weight, determines whether it floats or sinks.

Life Size: What's in a microbe?
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In this activity on page 3 of the PDF, learners visualize the relative size and structural differences between microbes that have the potential to cause disease.

Brick Drop Challenge
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In this design challenge, leaners attempt to build a strong structure out of LEGO® bricks that can withstand a 4-foot drop.

Strengthen a Paper Bridge
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In this quick activity (page 1 of the PDF under SciGirls Activity: Tug O' War), learners will test how many pennies a flat paper index card bridging the gap between two stacks of books is able to supp

Stop the Stretching
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Learners work with plastic sheeting, masking tape, and string to design the perfect material for plastic chair webbing, and then construct their webbing.

Foam Tower
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In this activity (page 1 of the PDF under SciGirls Activity: Water Slides), learners will whip up some suds with a cup of water and a tablespoon of dish soap until the bubbles are stiff enough to star

Build A Treetop Walkway
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Build and test a scale model of a rainforest canopy walkway.

Critical Load
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In this activity, learners explore the concepts of structural engineering and how to measure the critical load, or the maximum weight a structure can bear.
Leaves: Designing Leaf Arrangements on a Branch
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In this hands-on activity, learners investigate the functional design of leaves on a tree.
Dowels and Rubber Bands I
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If you have 3-foot dowels and rubber bands, you can can started on this fun and open design challenge. You can make structures big and small: make it so you can fit your parent into it!

High Rise
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In this design challenge activity, learners build a tower that can support a tennis ball at least 18 inches off the ground while withstanding the wind from a fan.

Sticky Structures
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In this engineering/design/arts and crafts activity, learners design and build "platforms" or "bridges" that can hold weight, and test which glue makes the strongest structure.

The Squeeze is On
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Each group of learners uses everyday materials, such as paper, toothpicks, and tape to design and construct a structure intended to support the weight of a cinder block for 30 seconds.

Marshmallow Models
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No glue is needed for learners of any age to become marshmallow architects or engineers.

Balsa Towers
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Learners work in groups to design and build a tower out of balsa wood. As a motivator, they can compete to build a tower with the highest strength-to-weight ratio.

Building with Wonderful Junk
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In this activity (page 4), learners work in groups to plan and build large structures using recyclable materials they have brought from home.

Speedy Shelter
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In this design challenge activity, learners invent an emergency shelter that can fit a person and is sturdy and quick to build.

Sand Castle Saturation
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In this activity about saturation (page 1 of PDF under SciGirls Activity: Sand Dunes), learners will build a series of sand castle towers using a 16 oz cup.

Milk Carton Boats
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This activity (on page 2 of the PDF SciGirls Activity: Milk Carton Boat) is a full inquiry investigation into boat hull design.