One if our first activities in Primary 7 was a simple engineering challenge where the children worked in groups to build the tallest, free standing tower that they could given a limited range of materials. We first looked at other tall structures and thought about the shapes that are used to create strength and balance and discussed other important features such as the importance of a firm base. Next the building phase began. Finally, we lined up all the entries to see which was the tallest.
I was impressed with how well the children communicated with each other and built upon their planning in the construction phase by modifying their designs to deal with factors like balance and strengthening. I think we have have some young engineers in the making!
