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
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P1_What_Is_Engineering_Engineering_Journal
What Is Engineering Engineering Journal (English)
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P1_What_Is_Engineering_Engineering_Journal_Spanish
What Is Engineering Engineering Journal (Spanish)
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Engineering_Adventures_Alternate_Prep_Adventures
Alternate Prep Adventures
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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.
- Print and post the EDP Poster.
- Get the Message from the Duo ready.
- Make card samples (Engineering Journal p. 2).
Guiding Question
How can we design something to solve a problem?
Youth Will Do
- Engineer an index card tower that can support a stuffed animal.
Listen Up
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.
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.
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