We've started our engineering unit in 2nd grade. We learned that engineers design and build things to solve problems. They use creative and innovative ideas. We've also learned that there are many types of engineers. Some may create new things, some take things apart to see how they work, and others study why things don't work.
Our first task was to make a spaghetti tower using 30 noodles and 30 marshmallows. The students were placed in groups of 3, and they had three science class periods to work. The goal was to build the tallest standing structure. Once the students got their supplies they got right to work with enthusiasm.
Groups soon found that this was more challenging than they anticipated. Spaghetti noodles are not strong building supplies and marshmallows are gooey. The groups worked together to design and redesign. This can definitely lead to frustration, and how the groups handle this frustration can definitely impact their outcome. On day 2 each group received 20 more noodles and 20 more marshmallows to help build on or fix up the tower.
Each group received 10 more noodles and 10 more marshmallows on the third day. These extra supplies were a welcome addition because many groups found that their snapped noodles were no longer helpful to their ideas moving forward. Each group pulled together and used excellent team work! They listened to each other's ideas and were patient throughout the process. We measured the towers on the third day. Each group ended with a standing structure. This is a fun project with so many great lessons!
