Fall Saturday SAVY, Week 1, Engineering Design: Full STEAM Ahead! (1st-2nd)
Welcome to Fall SAVY-Engineering Design. This course will allow students to learn about engineering and technology and its impact on history. Over the course of the three Saturdays, the students will have several opportunities to explore the concept of technology, learn about engineering through exploration, and be part of a team that will design and build a bridge to solve a problem.
On Saturday, students started the day by getting to know each other and discussing class expectations. Over the course of the morning, the students explored the concept of technology by observing and identifying technology from a selection of items. Students discussed the criteria that are needed for an item to be considered technology. Midday, students enjoyed a quick brain break and played 4 corners- getting to know the other jr. engineers in the class. To finish out the morning, students listened to a story called, “Not a Stick.” Then, they went on an outdoor adventure to find a stick of their own. Once back from foraging sticks, students got to work on designing their “not a stick.”
After lunch, students continued to work on their “not a stick” challenge designs. Then they were able to turn those designs into reality. We had a variety of creations–winter tree, fly fishing rod, swings, pick axe, bow and arrow, and even a rocket to name a few. Students had a great time working on these, and I hope you enjoyed hearing about them. Check out our photos to see their, “It’s not a stick” designs and creations.
At the end of the day, students listened to the story, “Javier Builds a Bridge”. Where they learned about three different types of bridges–arch, suspension, and beam bridge. Next week, students will continue to learn about civil engineers and bridge types. In addition, they will test out the three different bridge types and what makes them sturdy and popular among civil engineers.
For a family connection–Discuss how many bridges you drive over on your daily commute, what type of bridge you think it is, and where are the supports of the bridge.
Students may want to re-listen to the story, Javier Builds a Bridge, using the link provided below before our next class. Finally, I am including a digital bridge-building game if you would like for your student to practice where the bridge supports are needed, as well as the value of specific materials.
Thank you for a wonderful Saturday and for sharing your junior engineers with me. Have a fantastic week, and we’ll see you on October 28th!
Game- https://www.crazygames.com/game/construct-a-bridge
YouTube story- Javier Builds a Bridge https://youtu.be/uOxUgFJl7TE?si=WCXOYB9wGbvR9-pO