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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.

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.

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

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 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.

In this activity (pages 13-14), learners investigate the properties of smart materials, which are materials that respond to things that happen around them.

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 engineering activity, young learners investigate multi-level buildings.

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.

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

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

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.

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