Search Results
Showing results 1 to 13 of 13
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-946.jpg?itok=Hh2ajG4b)
Linkages
Source Institutions
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-001-618.jpg?itok=Vd6CRV0C)
The Shape of Floatation
Source Institutions
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-923.jpg?itok=Rz_D51gI)
Brick Drop Challenge
Source Institutions
In this design challenge, leaners attempt to build a strong structure out of LEGO® bricks that can withstand a 4-foot drop.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-843.png?itok=a9ENoxoY)
As Straight as a Pole
Source Institutions
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-842.png?itok=iiR7kSM3)
Designing a Wall
Source Institutions
In this engineering activity (page 5 of PDF), young learners investigate how materials and design contribute to the strength of a structure, particularly walls.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-434.png?itok=E-QLTAE5)
Three Little Pigs Construction Company
Source Institutions
In this activity about problem-solving, learners build a house for the Three Little Pigs using twenty straws and two index cards.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-000-142.jpg?itok=BKsN23oi)
Build A Treetop Walkway
Source Institutions
Build and test a scale model of a rainforest canopy walkway.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-003-981.jpg?itok=Dzk9ry5O)
Critical Load
Source Institutions
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
Source Institutions
In this hands-on activity, learners investigate the functional design of leaves on a tree.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-000-640.png?itok=hbm17YU9)
Sticky Structures
Source Institutions
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-888.jpg?itok=ebQmLGE7)
The Squeeze is On
Source Institutions
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-637.png?itok=0rZ4ozbi)
Building with Wonderful Junk
Source Institutions
In this activity (page 4), learners work in groups to plan and build large structures using recyclable materials they have brought from home.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-844.png?itok=U6WtftQU)
Building Tall
Source Institutions
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.