The Physics of Engineering: Building Big
Stretch your problem solving skills by exploring skyscrapers, bridges, tunnels, and dams. Can you build big?
Ian Nelson
Average rating:
4.7
Number of reviews:(2,517)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students will be encouraged to make a small physical model each week in response to challenge prompts. Example challenge prompts include things like "Design and build a two story building using only edible materials." and "Create your own tunnel shield system to tunnel through fruit."Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 7
Have you ever wondered how engineers build big? In this four week class, we'll dive into the physics and engineering behind large structures. We will explore how engineers solve problems when designing skyscrapers, bridges, tunnels, and dams. We ask questions like: -- What makes a skyscraper a skyscraper? -- How have engineers invented new technologies to make large structures possible? -- Where did engineers get the idea of a suspension bridge? -- Why is the Brooklyn Bridge an engineering wonder? -- How has tunnel construction changed over time? -- How do engineers build subway systems? -- How do engineers plan large dam projects? -- How can dams generate electricity? Classes feature an interactive, facilitated discussion. Learners will be asked for their thoughts about designing large structures as we reflect on building them in the real-world. Each class discussion focuses on identifying problems specific to each kind of large structure and analyzing how engineers address the problem. We will regularly go "on site" to authentic engineering projects through the power of video so learners can see what engineering looks like. Broadly our class will focus on the following themes: Week 1: Skyscrapers Week 2: Bridges Week 3: Tunnels Week 4: Dams * Students are strongly encouraged to bring their questions to this class as I constantly flex my teaching to accommodate student interests. After each class, learners will have the opportunity to tackle a hands-on project related to class discussion. I suggest several options so that learners can choose an interesting and engaging challenge.
Learning Goals
Students will be able to:
- Identify and describe engineering challenges in large building projects
- Incorporate physics vocabulary into their questions and observations
- Appreciate the difficulty in designing a successful engineering design project
- Integrate engineering design principles into their own building projects
Other Details
Supply List
Students should have access to a digital camera (webcam is fine). All engineering challenges use supplies that can be found at a local grocery store such as uncooked pasta, marshmallows, pipe cleaners, notebook paper, and masking tape.
1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined October, 2017
4.7
2517reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I'm a mechanical engineer and engineering educator with a passion for helping empower kids to understand the world around them. Reviews
Live Group Class
$60
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
50 min
Completed by 210 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-13
2-8 learners per class
