Scientific Method – Bridge Building

The beginning of the school year is perfect for teaching procedures, rules, and review material that will help students during the year.  Personally, I like to use the beginning of the school year to teach the students about the steps of the scientific method.  One way I do this is by having the students participate in a bridge building activity.  The goal of the activity is for students to work in groups and build a bridge that will be the strongest in the class out of 100 toothpicks and Elmer’s Glue.

Students go through the steps of the scientific method as they complete their project.

Step One – Students will create questions that get them thinking about what type of bridge will be the strongest.

Step Two – Students will learn how to research and use a research recorder to research the different types of bridges. Students will also write a paragraph that includes the type of bridge the student thinks will be the best choice and three reasons based on research.

Step Three – Students will learn how to complete if…then… statements and create their own hypothesis.

Step Four – Students will create a blueprint using their ideas that their group created. Students will build their bridge using the blueprint and test their bridge.

Step Five – Students will analyze the different data of the class.

Step Six – Students will write a report of the activity.

Students have enjoyed this project both years that I have implemented it.  This year, I decided to share all of my resources and ideas on Teachers Pay Teachers!!

Please visit my store Dive Into the Mind of a Middle School Teacher to view the unit!

Enjoy!!