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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. Learners investigate basic structures, how to reinforce, materials selection, and working as a team, design and build a prototype structure to hold increasingly greater weights.
- Under 5 minutes
- 1 to 2 hours
- $1 - $5 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Student Resource Sheets
- Student Worksheets
- Unused playing cards
- Scotch tape rolls
- Coins
- Base of empty square based two quart cardboard juice/milk container
- Objects to build weight of base from 4-10 pounds (coins, marbles, sand)
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
-
Technology
- Construction
-
Engineering
-
Physical Sciences
-
Motion and Forces
- Gravity
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Mass and Weight
-
Motion and Forces
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
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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
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
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:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, IEEE,