Think Like an Engineer
Students follow an engineer's approach as they identify problems, brainstorm solutions, design a plan, and build, test, refine, and produce a product or solution. Activities in Think Like an Engineer Teacher’s Guide include the following.
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Ring Wing Gliders: Investigating Engineering: Can you work like an engineer?
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Boomerangs: Many Happy Returns: Will a boomerang always come back no matter how it is thrown?
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Javelin Rockets: Throwing to the Max: How does the angle affect distance?
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Catapults: Powering a Projectile: Does design make a difference?
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Wind-up Racers: The Potential for Speed: Where is the energy transformation?
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Rocket Cars: Off to the Races: How can a balloon propel a race car?
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Roller Coasters: Getting Loopy: How high can you go?
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Kinetic Art: Sculptures in Motion: What makes a kinetic sculpture work?
The STEM activities found in the Think Like an Engineer Teacher’s Guide may be used individually or as a teaching unit focusing on physical science. Though designed for middle school students, activities may also be appropriate for upper-level elementary students.
