To begin the learning about dams, learners read (or are read to, depending on the age group) a passage about how dams work. Next, they work in groups to use the materials provided to build a small scale working dam. After the experience, each young engineer answers some reflection questions.

Concepts

engineering design, engineering, technology resources

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Additional Tags

engineering design process, dam building, engineering challenge

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Pros

• Applicable to any age group
• Real-world engineering challenge helps make learning more relevant
• Fun and challenging cooperative learning experience

Cons

• Requires a large variety of materials