5th Grade  Project 1 week

Eggstranaut Adventure: Recycled Egg Drop Challenge!

Alexander R
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Purpose

Dive into the world of engineering by designing a protective structure for an egg using only recycled materials. This project challenges you to think critically and creatively about how to prevent the egg from cracking when dropped from a height of 10 feet. Collaborate with peers and engage with local engineering experts to refine your design and testing strategies. Document your iterative process in a project journal, showcasing your ability to analyze, adapt, and problem-solve effectively. This hands-on experience not only enhances your understanding of physics and materials but also strengthens your skills in collaboration and innovation.

Learning goals

Through this project, you will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by designing a protective structure for an egg using recycled materials. You will learn to apply engineering principles and test your designs, making iterative improvements based on real-world testing results. Collaborating with community partners will enhance your understanding of structural design and provide insights into professional engineering practices. Additionally, documenting your process in a project journal will help you reflect on your learning journey and articulate your reasoning effectively.
Standards
  • Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.MD.A.1: Convert among different-sized standard measurement units within a given measurement system and use these conversions in solving multi-step real-world problems.
  • NGSS - 3-5-ETS1-2: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.7: Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

Products

Create a detailed blueprint of your initial egg protection structure, highlighting the recycled materials chosen and their intended function. Develop a project journal that documents each iteration of your design, including sketches, observations from test drops, and reflections on adjustments made. Conclude the project by constructing a final prototype that incorporates all improvements, and prepare a presentation to share your design process and results with peers and community partners.

Launch

Begin the project with an interactive demonstration where you drop an unprotected egg from a height of 10 feet, observing the impact and discussing the forces at play. Follow this with a brainstorming session to explore potential recycled materials and design ideas. Invite a guest speaker from a local engineering club or university to share insights on structural design principles and answer questions.

Exhibition

Organize a showcase event where you present your final egg drop designs to classmates, teachers, and community partners. Set up stations where each group can demonstrate their egg drop challenge and explain their design process and modifications. Invite the local engineering club or university partners to provide feedback and celebrate your achievements. Facilitate a gallery walk where you can view and provide feedback on each other's work, focusing on creativity and problem-solving skills.