Friday, September 16, 2016

Mind Mission: Canyon Crossing

Scholars did a great job collaborating and thinking creatively through the Engineering Design Process in their most recent Social Studies design challenge! 

Connection: Great Plains region of Texas- Palo Duro Canyon

Mission: Oh, no! A cow is stranded on the wrong side of the canyon. Can you build a bridge to help the cow come home to the ranch? It must be able to support the weight of a cow (book).

Materials: 8 craft sticks, 2 feet of tape, 6 notecards, 10 paper clips, 8 rubber bands, 8 straws

Scholars were scored on the length of the bridge (up to 20 points), if the bridge would support the weight of their cow (one book), if the bridge stood freely, and positive teamwork. They also completed a reflection on their structure design, use of materials, and how their design might impact the economy in the area.