Building Bridges: Teamwork and Engineering

Chandler Creedon

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Building Bridges: Teamwork and Engineering

Learn basics of bridge engineering

In this lesson, students will explore the basics of bridge engineering by constructing mini bridges using everyday materials. This hands-on activity emphasizes teamwork and problem-solving skills as students collaborate to design and build a bridge capable of holding weight. The lesson is important as it introduces young learners to engineering concepts and fosters essential social skills like cooperation and communication.

Audience

1st Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Learn basics of bridge engineering

Materials

Everyday materials (e.g., straws, tape, paper clips), Small weights (e.g., coins, small toys), Worksheet: Bridge Design Plan, and Discussion: Teamwork and Problem-Solving

Step 1

Introduction to Bridges

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion about bridges and their importance in everyday life.
Show pictures of different types of bridges (e.g., beam, arch, suspension).
Ask students if they have seen any bridges and what they noticed about them.

Step 2

Bridge Building Activity

25 mins

Divide students into small groups and provide each group with a set of materials.
Explain the challenge: design and build a bridge that can hold a small weight.
Encourage students to sketch their design on the "Bridge Design Plan" worksheet before building.
Allow students to construct their bridges, offering guidance and support as needed.

Step 3

Testing and Reflection

10 mins

Have each group test their bridge by placing small weights on it.
Facilitate a discussion on what worked well and what could be improved.
Use the "Teamwork and Problem-Solving" discussion questions to reflect on the teamwork experience.

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Worksheet

Bridge Design Plan

This worksheet helps students plan their bridge design before construction. It encourages them to think about the materials and structure they will use.

Draw your bridge design here.

Think about the shape and materials you will use.

List the materials you will use for your bridge.

Consider what materials will make your bridge strong.

Discussion

Teamwork and Problem-Solving

This discussion focuses on the teamwork and problem-solving aspects of the bridge-building activity. It encourages students to reflect on their collaboration and the challenges they faced.

How did your team decide on the bridge design?

Discuss the decision-making process and how ideas were shared.

What challenges did you face while building the bridge?

Encourage students to think about any difficulties and how they overcame them.

How did working as a team help you build the bridge?

Highlight the benefits of teamwork and how it contributed to the project.