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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.

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.

Using toothpicks, straws, or tubes of rolled up newspaper, learners create 3-dimensional models to illustrate the basic structure and function of the cell membrane, and place an object inside to repre

In this engineering activity, learners investigate the differences between the strength of bridges made from flat and round building materials.

In this engineering activity (page 3 of PDF), young learners investigate how a pole can be made stable by “planting” its base in the ground or adding supports to the base.

In this engineering activity (page 5 of PDF), young learners investigate how materials and design contribute to the strength of a structure, particularly walls.

Build and test a scale model of a rainforest canopy walkway.

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.

In this activity about problem-solving, learners build a house for the Three Little Pigs using twenty straws and two index cards.

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.

In this engineering activity (page 2 of PDF), young learners investigate how a wide base can make a building more stable. Learners use blocks or boxes of different sizes to construct stable towers.

In this activity, learners explore different ways to stack cups to meet a personal goal.

In this activity, learners explore the structural strength of triangles by creating their own free-standing geodesic dome out of plastic straws.

In this outdoor activity, learners build bird nests and place them in the activity area, then play the role of naturalists as they try to locate each other's nests.

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.

In this activity, learners make a model of the solid Earth's layers that's good enough to eat! Learners use tasty foodstuffs to simulate Earth's inner core, outer core, mantle, and crust.

In this hands-on activity, learners investigate the functional design of leaves on a tree.

In this hands-on nature activity, learners observe the emergence of leaves and flowers. Branches from trees and bushes are collected in the early spring, brought indoors, and placed in water.

Play with your food while learning about engineering! Build a spaghetti bridge, then test its strength by piling on the marshmallows, raw spaghetti, raw linguine and coins.

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