Summary
Introduces engineering as the process of using science and math to solve real-world problems and asks students to think like engineers by identifying a problem, brainstorming solutions, and considering constraints.
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Discussion
- How is an engineer different from a scientist?
- What is a constraint? Give an example of a real constraint an engineer might face.
- Engineers must define a problem clearly before solving it. Why does that matter?
- Name something in this room that an engineer designed. What problem were they solving?
Quick work-a-long
Vocabulary: engineer, design, constraint, criteria, problem, solution.
Try it: Pick one problem in your classroom (poor lighting, noisy hallway, etc.). Write a one-sentence problem statement, then list two constraints any solution must meet.