Last week we began a new science unit:  Structure and Function - Exploring Design. We began by talking about the function of various objects and how this connects to their design and structure. We brainstormed objects that hold water, objects we can use to write, and objects that can move a person from one place to another. We noticed that all of the objects that hold water need to have a bottom and sides, while tools we use for writing tend to be long and rounded with a pointy tip. Most of the objects for transportation had wheels.

We then read a version of "Jack and the Beanstalk" and talked about the function of the beanstalk (it was used as a ladder). Children were then presented with a design and build challenge to use 10 pipe cleaners to create the tallest beanstalk they could. This is actually quite challenging and can be very frustrating, so we talked about the importance of working through frustration and adjusting our ideas and expectations depending on what worked and didn't work. Once children completed their beanstalk they had an opportunity to make adjustments and see if it could hold a golden egg. We ended by discussing the entire process, noting ideas that worked, things that were surprising (the finished beanstalks are often not all that tall!) and strategies children used to work through frustration, important skills for many aspects of life!