Lesson Phenomena: Engineers build with triangles
After viewing this video showing how engineers build with triangles, in the last lesson, students designed a structure based on the question: “How might we design a structure that has the best effect on sunlight on the earth’s surface?” or “How might we build a structure that makes shade?” In this lesson students build their design.
Learning Goals:
- Students build shade structures that will optimize cooling the earth’s surface from sunlight.
Materials List
Handouts
Classroom Supplies per group of 2 students
- 10 jumbo craft sticks
- 1 container of Playdough (2oz)
- 8 packing peanuts
- 10 8-inch non-bendable straws
- 2 sheets of tissue paper (assorted colors)
- 2 sheets of construction paper (assorted colors)
- 1 meter of tape (cellophane)
- 2 sheets of photocopy paper
- 1 set of scissors
- crayons and markers
Important Links