The information below explains the additional resources, the intended outcome on the design project and any additional support needed by the teacher.
Additional Resources
The additional resources page includes a number of links to websites and videos that the students can access. While the list on the previous page is not extensive, it is enough to get students thinking about what they want to build and how they want to design their bridge.
The SciShow Kids video explains in child-friendly language what bridges are made of and how they can withhold large weights. This video will show the students some good design ideas for their own bridges.
The website of different bridge designs is not made specifically for children but shows an extensive variety of bridge designs that the students may want to look at. This website can be used during class time when explaining the varied design possibilities.
Teacher Information
Differentiation
This project is based mainly around group work. After the initial individual planning and designing stage, the whole project is based in groups and focuses on team work and problem solving. Differentiation is something that is different in every class with any number of students with differing ability levels.
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In general terms, differentiation in this project is mainly based on additional teacher support. In the initial planning stage students must design their own bridge with detailed drawings. In this first stage of the project, some students may require additional information and explanations of the task. This could be achieved through the teacher talking it through individually with a student, or showing them some websites and books to read that explain bridge designs.
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The rest of the project is all completed in groups. To provide each student with the support they need, the teacher may choose to split the groups according to ability level to ensure each student with low level understanding is placed with a high performing student who will coach and support everyones involvement.
Below are some elements of the curriculum evident in this design brief. Please click on the appropriate links for additional information from the Australian Curriculum.
Content Descriptors - Design and Technologies
Generate, develop, and communicate design ideas and decisions using appropriate technical terms and graphical representation techniques (ACTDEP015)
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exploring ways of joining, connecting and assembling components that ensure success
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generating a range of design ideas for intended products, services, environments
Investigate the suitability of materials, systems, components, tools and equipment for a range of purposes (ACTDEK013)
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conducting experiments and tests to understand the properties of materials, for example, strength, durability, warmth, elasticity
General Capabilities