We are Engineers!

tower1Room 30 has been exercising our minds by engaging in some engineering projects. The first challenge was to create a sturdy paper tower that could survive Hurricane Vazquez (teacher huffs and puffs and tries to blow it down). Students were given 4 pieces of newspaper and 12 inches of masking tape.  They were to go through “The Engineering Process” and construct a sturdy tower. It was quite a learning experience for most of us. There was a lot of reflecting and improving! As Michael Jordan says, “I can accept failure, I just can’t

accept not trying.”

Ask: Define the problem

Ask: Define the problem

Imagine: Brainstorm possible solutions

Imagine: Brainstorm possible solutions

Plan: Draw a diagram

Plan: Draw a diagram

Create: Follow your plan and test it!

Create: Follow your plan and test it!

Improve: Modify your design and make it better!

Improve: Modify your design and make it better!

Has your class tried something like this? Do you have any ideas or challenges for us? We’d love to try something new! Please comment below.

Create a WordFoto

I came across this cool app for the ipad as I was looking for an “All About Me” project to start the year.  The app cost $1.99, but the end product is priceless.  I used my own child as a model since we are out on summer vacation (although he will be my student next year).  Do you have any other Back-to-School ideas?  Please comment below.wordfotoHere is a link to the app in the itunes store:  Wordfoto