Summer SAVY, Session 2 Day 1, Industrial Engineering: Machines at Work (3rd-4th)
Today was an exciting kickoff to our SAVY course, Industrial Engineering: Machines at Work! We began by building our classroom community. Students got to know each other with a fun SEL check-in and engaged in a “Would You Rather” activity before learning about The Learning Pit, a visual tool that helped us talk about how we learn from challenges. We wrote down our own learning stories and how to persevere when things get tough—something engineers do all the time!
Throughout the day, we squashed our misunderstandings of technology through a competitive game and what it means to be an engineer through an equally engaging activity. Students worked in teams to define technology and engineering by examining everyday objects and tools. They learned that technology isn’t just screens and gadgets. It includes any human-made object created to solve a problem or meet a need. Through activities and discussions, learners came to understand that engineers are creative problem-solvers who use tools, systems, and design thinking to make work easier.
Students then dove into the story Aisha Makes Work Easier, a book that introduced us to simple machines and the role of industrial engineers. Students discussed examples of simple machines they’ve seen and how these devices help reduce effort. We added new vocabulary to our notebooks and charted examples of simple machines Aisha discovered. Tomorrow, we will continue this learning by watching a video to bring the world of industrial engineering to life. Students will then have the opportunity to reflect on what they learn and connect it to their own lives through discussion and an exit ticket.
To extend today’s learning at home, consider going on a Simple Machine Scavenger Hunt around your house or neighborhood! Can your child find a lever (like a broom or pliers), a pulley (maybe on blinds), or a wheel and axle (think doorknobs or rolling chairs)? You might also ask your child to explain the difference between technology and engineering and share one object in your home that they now see in a new way. Another fun activity is to have your child “spy” simple machines in action—like a pair of scissors (a wedge and a lever)—and draw or label them in a notebook.
We had a fantastic start and can’t wait to continue exploring how machines make work easier. Thank you for supporting your child’s learning and curiosity—we’re just getting started!