INSTRUCTOR ACTIVITY SHEET
As an introduction to civil engineering, this project is designed to teach basic structural design to young children. Participants will be able to prototype their own bridges out of note cards and test the structural integrity of their creation by stacking weights on top of it until it collapses. They will understand how changing the shape of the structure can quickly modify its ability to support weight.
This activity is geared toward children aged 7 to 11 years. The materials required include notecards, weights, and two supports for the bridges. You may also choose to enhance the activity by providing scissors and tape to add another element to the designs.
STEP 1: SET UP. Place the two supports (e.g. books, boxes) next to each other with a considerable space in between, depending on the size of notecards used. Put the rest of the supplies (notecards, weights, tape, scissors) on the table near the supports. Also, set out some sample bridge designs*.
STEP 2: INTRODUCTION. When the children come to the table, you need to explain the activity and its objective. Show them the example of the plain straight notecard. Demonstrate how this design holds very little weight. Then, show that the same card, folded in a certain way, can support considerably more weight before collapsing.
STEP 3: MONITOR ACTIVITY. Let the children make the structures. Ask them questions that would direct them to think about different geometric shapes and forms to improve the durability of their bridges. Some example questions are:
1. Think of
examples of bridges you have around your neighborhood.
What are some common designs in
bridges?
2. What geometric shapes are
represented or included in the structure?
3. How should the weights be
placed on the bridges so that it can support the greatest amount? On one point
or along the entire length? In the center of the bridge or towards the edges?
4. What makes the bridge stronger?
Weaker?
5. How could you improve your
bridge?
(Optional) STEP 4: RECORD RESULTS. Hold a competition to see who’s bridge can hold the most weight using the least amount of notecards. This will encourage the children to try several types of designs until they accomplish their goal. You can record the results of each child’s bridge.