Let's Build an Egg Drop Device Together (Camp)

This engineering design course includes something for all learners. Whether you are interested in the science behind how things work, drawing and designing, creative problem-solving, or just working with their hands, they are sure to enjoy this course.

Since this is a collaborative project, the course can be especially fun for siblings, cousins, or friends.

Day 1 - Learning, brainstorming discussion, and completing questions 1 and 2 on the EDP: Egg Drop document.
Day 1 homework - Create a sketch of the proposed Egg Drop device as well as a list of required materials (question 3 on the EDP: Egg Drop document).

Day 2 - Sharing sketches and discussion of ideas, testing ideas, addressing questions before build. Students will be given the opportunity to add more details to their sketches and extend their thinking.
Day 2 homework - Create the Egg Drop device - this may take 30 minutes - 3 hours depending on design and available help (questions 4 and 5 on the EDP: Egg Drop document).

Day 3 - Test Egg Drop device and discuss successes, challenges, and the pros and cons of chosen materials (question 6 on the EDP: Egg Drop document).

Learning Portion (lecture/notes - mostly day 1):
- Students will learn about potential and kinetic energy and how to use them to their advantage.
- Students will also learn Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion and how to apply them to build an Egg Drop device.
- Students will follow an engineering design packet to complete a design, build the device, and test it.
- Students will make adjustments and retest as shown in the engineering design process.

Discussion Portion (guided questioning - days 2 and 3):
- Students will discuss ideas for utilizing the concepts learned in order to build their devices.
- Students will discuss material ideas and how to use them.
- Students will discuss plans with peers and then start designing their devices.
- Students will discuss the ideas they have sketched and compare and contrast ideas
- Students will begin making components of their proposed build to test whole class so we can discuss successes and challenges before building on their own.
- Students will discuss challenges and how they overcame them.
- Students will discuss pros and cons of materials chosen such as environmental impact, cost, durability, or aesthetic

Younger learners may need adult supervision.