Design Process

SLO 2-3-14 – Use the design process to construct a vehicle with wheels and axles that meets given criteria.

Problem: Kayla has a pile of dirt that needs to be moved from her driveway to the garden in the backyard. She needs something to help her move the dirt quickly and efficiently.

Materials: wheels, axles, cardboard box, dowels, tape, glue

Criteria: Must be able to carry a bag of marbles from one end of the hallway to the other. Invention must be maneuverable by one person.

This design brief would be so fun to do in groups with the class. Each group would be able to take whichever materials they think they need to solve the problem. The diversity between the groups would be fun to see. Would some students make a wheelbarrow, a cart, a wagon, … who knows what their imaginations can come up with! I would present the problem to the students and explain that we will be building mini models of a tool that I could use to accomplish my task. I would tell the the criteria and most likely help them make their groups since this is a grade 2 project. If I knew they were responsible enough to make their own groups, I would give them that autonomy. Then I’d give them the materials and let them explore!

~Ms. Berg