Popsicle-Stick Bridge Building

Setting the Stage

1 CE

What are the characteristics of a strong bridge?
What do bridges that you've seen have in common? In small groups, students will build a bridge out of popsicle sticks that will be asked to hold a textbook.

Activity

2

Break off into small groups and start researching what makes a solid bridge. During the research process, students should create a blueprint of their planned bridge. After the blue print is done, students can start building their bridge.

Testing

3

Once the bridges have been completed, the class will go around the room making predictions for each bridge and then testing them with a textbook.

Consolidation

4

As a whole, the class will reflect on what they thought were the characteristics of a sturdy bridge both from their research and when they saw them tested. What surprised them? What did they learn? After the group discussion, students should reflect on their own and write down their thoughts to be turned in to the teacher