Bridge Challenge
In this project students will get to experience the difference between ‘freestyle’ problem solving and strategic problem solving. Students will build two different bridges. The first without any structure provided for how to approach the problem, then a the second using a well defined problem solving heuristic. Students will have an opportunity to reflect on the differences between these two experiences. Students will also apply the teamwork and conflict resolution strategies they learned in this unit.
Learning
Outcomes
Problem-solving
Reflection
Objective
Build a small-scale bridge that can carry the most amount of weight with the least amount of cost to build using basic materials provided in class.
Round 1 Constraints/Criteria
-
Bridge must span at least 6 inches in length
-
No more than 2 inches of the bridge is allowed to overhang on the ends for support (in total)
Round 2 Constraints/Criteria
• Bridge must span at least 14 inches in length
• No more than 2 inches of the bridge is allowed to overhang on the ends for support (in total)
Teamwork
Communication
Round 1 Materials
Material
Cost
Regular 8.5”x 11” printing paper (3 max)
$10/each
Cardstock Paper (2 max)
$30/each
Weights (for testing bridge only)
Provided
Scissors, Ruler (for cutting/measuring only)
Provided
Round 2 Materials
Material
Cost
Regular 8.5”x 11” printing paper (3 max)
$10/each
Cardstock Paper (2 max)
$30/each
Paper clips (2 max)
Binder clips (2 max)
Tape (5 inches max)
$20/each
$30/each
$10/in
Sample Student Work
Resources
Rubric
Checklist
Reflection Slides Template