We have wrapped up our science unit on structure and function with two more design challenges.  

Two weeks ago, after reading a version of The Three Pigs, children were challenged to design a house sturdy enough to hold up to the blowing of the big bad wolf (and protect the pig inside) using craft sticks, glue, and modeling clay. We used a leaf blower as our wolf to test each structure. Most of the housed stayed intact although the pig (a pink pom pom) was often sent flying.  This was very exciting!  In reflecting on their designs, children decided walls higher walls with few gaps worked well, and children who tilted their sticks into a cone shape seemed to have the most secure structures. Most children also agreed that lots more modeling clay would have been helpful.

On Friday they were presented with their final challenge: to design a paintbrush.  Students were encouraged to think about what they would like their paintbrush to be able to do (function) and then they drew pictures to match their ideas (design). They were then invited to choose from a variety of materials and begin building. We had many creative and inspiring designs.  Many children chose to test their brushes at the end of the day.