Speedy Shelter

Source Institutions

WGBH

In this design challenge activity, learners invent an emergency shelter that can fit a person and is sturdy and quick to build. Learners think about a familiar shape in new ways, brainstorm shelter designs and follow the design process to invent a solution to the challenge. Educators can put this challenge in the context of a real life scenario by sharing a fake news story about a lost hiker. The news story can be found on page 1 of the Leaders Notes.

Preparation Time:: 5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:: 30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:: $10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:: Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:: Activity, Simulation
Language:: English, Spanish

Materials List (per group of students)

2 cardboard sheets (approx. 8.5 x 11 in.)
16 3-ft. bamboo plant stakes
3 33- or 42-gal. garbage bags, cut open into sheets
scissors
duct tape
string

Keywords

Subjects

Engineering and Technology
- Engineering
  - Civil Engineering
- Technology
  - Construction
Mathematics
- Geometry
  - Plane Geometry
Physical Sciences
- Motion and Forces
  - Gravity
  - Center of Gravity
- Structure and Properties of Matter
  - Mass and Weight
The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
  - Conducting Investigations
The Nature of Technology
- The Design Process
  - Research and Development
  - Invention and Innovation
  - Problem Solving
  - Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

Nature and Environment
Outdoor Activity
Sports and Exercise

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

see
read
be mobile
touch

Learning styles supported:

Involves teamwork and communication skills
Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Design Squad Activities

Access Rights:

Free access

By:

WGBH

Source Collection:

Design Squad Nation

Rights:

Funding Source:

National Science Foundation, 0810996