Learning Activity 1

Design and build a bridge that can hold various weights

Overview

Students will learn about the forces acting on structures, such as compression and tension, and how to apply engineering principles to design and construct a bridge. 

learning Outcome

Students will demonstrate an understanding of engineering principles and systems by designing and constructing a bridge that can support a specific weight.

Content Descriptors

• Investigate how forces and the properties of materials affect the behavior of a structure or object (ACTDEK031)

• Generate, develop, and communicate design ideas and decisions using appropriate technical terms and graphical representation techniques (ACTDEP036)

Procedure

1. Introduce the concept of engineering principles and systems, focusing on the forces acting on structures.

2. Discuss different types of bridges and their designs, highlighting the importance of considering forces and materials.

3. Present a real-world problem, such as designing a bridge to connect two areas separated by a river.

4. In groups, students brainstorm and sketch their bridge designs, considering the forces involved and suitable materials.

5. Students build their bridges using materials like popsicle sticks, straws, and tape, ensuring they can support a specific weight (e.g., a small toy car).

6. Each group presents their bridge design, explaining the engineering principles applied and how they solved the real-world problem.

7. Students evaluate and test each bridge's strength by adding weights until it collapses.

8. Students reflect on their designs, discussing what worked well and what could be improved.

To demonstrate learning, students need to:

• Present a well-designed bridge that can support the specified weight.

• Explain the engineering principles applied in their design.

• Participate in the evaluation and testing of other groups' bridges.

• Reflect on their design process and suggest improvements.

Sample