Engineering Design Challenge

Hannah Norwood

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Engineering Design Challenge

Enhance problem-solving skills

In this hands-on engineering challenge, Grade 4 students will work in teams to solve a real-world problem. This lesson is designed to enhance their critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. By engaging in this activity, students will learn to collaborate effectively, think creatively, and apply engineering principles to develop innovative solutions.

Audience

Grade 4 Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Enhance problem-solving skills

Materials

Paper, Pencils, Scissors, Tape, Rulers, and Engineering Design Worksheet

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Briefly introduce the concept of engineering and its importance in solving real-world problems.
Explain the challenge: Students will work in teams to design and build a structure that can hold a specific weight using limited materials.
Discuss the criteria for success and constraints (e.g., time, materials).

Step 2

Team Planning

10 mins

Divide students into small teams.
Distribute the Engineering Design Worksheet to each team.
Instruct teams to brainstorm and sketch their initial design ideas on the worksheet.
Encourage students to consider different approaches and select the best one.

Step 3

Building Phase

20 mins

Provide each team with the materials (paper, pencils, scissors, tape, rulers).
Allow teams to construct their designs based on their plans.
Circulate the room to offer guidance and support as needed.

Step 4

Testing and Evaluation

10 mins

Have each team test their structure by placing the specified weight on it.
Observe and record the results.
Discuss what worked well and what could be improved.

Step 5

Reflection and Closure

10 mins

Gather students for a group discussion.
Ask teams to share their experiences and what they learned from the challenge.
Highlight the importance of teamwork and creative problem-solving.
Conclude with a reflection on how engineering skills can be applied in everyday life.

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Worksheet

Engineering Design Worksheet

This worksheet will guide students through the engineering design process, helping them document their ideas, plans, and reflections during the challenge.

What is the problem you are trying to solve?

Describe the challenge in your own words.

List the materials you have available for your design.

Sketch your initial design idea.

Use labels to show important parts of your design.

What changes did you make to your design during the building phase?

Explain why you made these changes.

Did your structure hold the weight? Why or why not?

Reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of your design.

What would you do differently next time?

Think about improvements or new ideas for your design.