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What is Engineering?

Youth engage in an engineering design challenge using an Engineering Design Process (EDP).

Youth Will Know

The Engineering Design Process is a tool they can use to help solve problems.

Activity Downloads

P1_What_Is_Engineering_Educator_Guide
What Is Engineering Educator Guide
pdf 707.86 KB
P1_What_Is_Engineering_Engineering_Journal
What Is Engineering Engineering Journal (English)
pdf 564.42 KB
P1_What_Is_Engineering_Engineering_Journal_Spanish
What Is Engineering Engineering Journal (Spanish)
pdf 5.22 MB
Engineering_Adventures_Alternate_Prep_Adventures
Alternate Prep Adventures
pdf 3.81 MB
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Setup

The Educator Guide has a script, materials list, and prep directions. Be sure to have it open and ready to help guide you through every activity. 

  1. Print and post the EDP Poster. 
  2. Get the Message from the Duo ready. 
  3. Make card samples (Engineering Journal p. 2). 
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Guiding Question

How can we design something to solve a problem?

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Youth Will Do

  • Engineer an index card tower that can support a stuffed animal.

Listen Up

Soundcloud
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Did you know?

Use duct tape much? You probably engineer more than you think. Anytime you design a makeshift tool because you don't have exactly what you need, you are engineering. 

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Quick Tips

  • Find and be ready to play the Messages from the Duo. 
  • Alternatively, print the Messages from the Duo from the Educator Guide and hide under somebody's chair as a "secret message" that needs to be found and read. 
  • In wrap up, identify each step of the EDP used in the activity. 
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Glossary

Material: what something is made of 

Engineering Design Process: the steps that engineers use to design something to solve a problem—Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, and Improve! 

Activity Timing

5 min
Present the Message from the Duo
5 min
Set the Stage
5 min
Imagine
20 min
Plan and Create
10 min
Tower Showcase
5 min
Reflect
50 min
Total