The Mighty STEM take-home challenge Structure project The Mighty STEM take-home challenge

In science class, we have been learning about structures (gr In science class, we have been learning about structures (gr.3) as well as understanding structures with mechanisms (gr.4). Now is the chance for you to show off. This is your stem take-home challenge. You will each have a choice of one of four projects to construct. These structures will be due on: January12th, 2016

How does this project work? You will be given a scenario based on the project you chose. From this scenario, you will need to identify a problem as well as brainstorm ways to solve it. You will also include: A list of materials (no lego, no pre-made blocks etc. only found materials (paper, cardboard, popsicle sticks, etc.) A blue print (a picture design plan) A list of the steps to construct your structure A reflection (what would you do differently?)

What are the project choices?

A bridge A bridge is a structure that spans from one point to another. They are used in both urban and rural areas and have been around for hundreds of years. Bridges can be made from a variety of materials which are chosen based on the bridge’s specific purpose (ex. For people to walk across, to move vehicles, etc.)

Bridge: SUCCESS CRITERIA Span a minimum of 30 cm. Have a mimimum width of 10cm. Be able to hold a load of 1000g (2.2 lbs.) Must be elevated a minimum of 10 cm from the ground

A Tower Towers have been used for hundreds of years. They are a way for humans to elevate themselves above their surroundings to see what is around them. They could be used to protect them or to protect property.

Tower (Grade 3’s Only): Must have a minimum height of 30 cm. Must hold a load of 1000 g (2.2 lbs.) Must include a way for a person to get to the top of the tower Must be able to withstand strong winds (ex. Blow dryer)

A rock mover Although this is not currently the terminology, these devices have also been used for hundreds of years. This structure is particularly helpful when moving larger rocks or boulders. When digging wells for water, a rock mover would be a very helpful structure to help move heavy loads.

Rock Mover: (Grade 3 or 4) Must include some sort of pulley system to move objects Must include a carrying system (e.g. basket) with a minimum dimension of 10 cm x 5 cm Must be able to hold a minimum load of 50g Must be able to raise a “rock” a minimum of 10 cm above the ground

A castle Common sights in medieval times, castles were built to protect and shelter multiple people. These structures incorporated not only sturdy materials to protect from natural elements but also incorporated many simple machines to assist with moving heavy objects.

Castle (Grade 4’s only) Tallest Peak (watch tower) must be a minimum of 30 cm Must include a pulley drawbridge Must include all characteristics of a medieval castle (barbicon, moat, minimum of 5 windows, etc.) Drawbridge must be able to hold a minimum load of 100g