What Gives?

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In this activity, learners design, build and test a model suspension bridge for sturdiness and strength. Participants explore how parts of the bridge, such as the deck, hangers, cables, towers and anchors, work together to keep the bridge up and support a heavy weighted object. Learners will use the design process to help develop and revise their structures. This activity may also be used with a unit on engineering, architecture, or a discussion on famous structures.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English, Spanish

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 2 chairs with backs
  • 3 11" x 17" sheets of corrugated cardboard
  • Duct tape
  • String
  • Hole puncher
  • Scissors
  • Yard or meter stick
  • Paper and pencil
  • Books

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Architectural Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
      • Transportation Engineering
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • 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

Foreign language versions of this resource:

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • WGBH

Source Collection

  • Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, WGBH Educational Foundation, 2008

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation, 0714741
  • Public television viewers
  • Greendog