Our recent STEM challenge in Year 3 and 4, saw students designing and building a paper structure strong enough to support the weight of a matchbox car.
Leading into the challenge, students explored different ways to make paper stronger, discovering that changing its shape through folds and increasing its thickness can improve its strength. They then applied this knowledge to create a structure capable of holding weight.
Throughout the activity, students worked through a process of trial and error, testing their designs and making improvements along the way. They were encouraged to think about where their structure was weakest and what changes could make it stronger. It was fantastic to see students collaborating, sharing ideas and problem-solving together.
This challenge helped students make connections to the work of engineers, who regularly test, refine and improve designs to create safe and effective structures. Students demonstrated persistence, creativity and teamwork while taking ownership of their learning and applying their STEM knowledge in a hands-on way.
“I have loved listening to students reflect on what they have built and explain why they made particular design choices. When you choose a good open-ended task, it creates opportunities for all students to challenge themselves, share their thinking and learn from one another. It is such a BUZZ” – Miss Lincoln
