Engineering for Kids: Building Bridges for Gnomes

The Next Generation Science Standards were just released in April of this year and there is a new engineering standard for children in grades K-5. I am so happy about this! I know we must teach scientific facts and have our kids memorize definitions of scientific terms but to truly understand what a  scientist or engineer does, we must let our children create without telling them exactly how. Let them learn through trial and error! I just completed my unit "Gnome Engineers" with my adorable first graders and it was a big hit! I started off with a story about the gnomes & a problem they have that must be solved by creating a bridge.

I gave my students this challenge: create a bridge for the gnomes that can stand on its own and can carry 2 gnomes. Their enthusiasm was overwhelming!! After showing them slides of bridges to inspire and spark discussion, my first graders immediately set to work designing their gnome bridges.  When I told them that they would actually be building the bridges - they were literally shouting with joy! They were so excited to come to science class every week - it  was so wonderful to see. Here are some of their fantastic creations:

I am so proud of them and their creativity never ceases to amaze me! They experienced the engineer's design process first-hand: 

-identify the problem

-research

-brainstorm

-draw design

-build a prototype

-test, evaluate & redesign.

For a freebie on the engineering design process, click here. To pick up a copy of my Gnomes Engineering packet, click here or on the picture below:

Happy Weekend!