Just before Thanksgiving we began a new science unit called Structure and Function: Exploring Design. We began the unit by drawing objects that can hold water. Students shared their object and we talked about the similiarities in their design, or structure, which were connected to the function of holding water. Children quickly noticed that all of the things that could hold water had sides to contain the water. We repeated this by drawing things that can be used to write and things that can be used to move a person from one place to another, noticing the connections between function and design.

Children were presented with their first design challenge after reading a version of Jack and the Beanstalk. We talked about the function of the beanstalk (it was used like a ladder) and how its structure supported its function. Each child was then given 10 pipe cleaners (and nothing else) to build a beanstalk that could stand freely and hold a golden egg. Before beginning we talked about some design considerations that might be necessary, including providing a base for the structure to stand up and a place for the egg to securely rest (just connecting the pipe cleaners in a chain definitely would not work).

We also talked about the fact that the task might be a frustrating and would probably require trying, and trying again with the end result different from what we might have first envisioned. It would require flexible thinking and perseverance! 

This week we also completed our second challenge, based on a version of The Mitten. After discussing the function of the mitten, to keep the animals warm and provide shelter, students were challenged to use materials from the classroom to create a free-standing shelter for the eight animals from the story. There was flexibility in what materials they used, but they couldn't make any permanent alterations, so no tape, glue, scissors etc. This time they worked in pairs and before beginning we talked about what makes a good partner. I asked students to think about what they would hope for in a partner and we shared ideas: someone who works together, someone who is kind, someone who listens, someone who helps, and someone who includes. As they set to work they were encouraged to keep these things in mind as they worked with their partners.

These challenges, while providing experience with building and design, also gave students great opportunities to practice problem solving, managing frustration, persevering, and working as a team, all important skills for life!