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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.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 30 to 45 minutes
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Simulation
- English, Spanish
Quick Guide
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
Subjects
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Engineering and Technology
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Engineering
- Civil Engineering
-
Technology
- Construction
-
Engineering
-
Mathematics
-
Geometry
- Plane Geometry
-
Geometry
-
Physical Sciences
-
Motion and Forces
- Gravity
- Center of Gravity
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Mass and Weight
-
Motion and Forces
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
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The Scientific Process
-
The Nature of Technology
-
The Design Process
- Research and Development
- Invention and Innovation
- Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
The Design Process
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:
- Learner handout (English PDF)
- Learner handout (Spanish PDF)
- Leader Notes (English PDF)
- Leader Notes (Spanish)
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Source Collection
- Design Squad Nation
Rights:
- All rights reserved, WGBH Educational Foundation, 2010
Funding Source:
- National Science Foundation, 0810996