Materials
25 Pipe Cleaners
Alternate Materials:
25 Straws
Playdough or Marshmallows
challenge
Can you re-create some of the world’s most famous free standing structures only using pipe cleaners?
Big Idea
There are many different types of engineers. Structural engineers focus on the framework of a structure. Many structural engineers enjoy creating beautiful bridges, towers, and buildings. Their most important design task is to create structures to withstand the stresses and pressures of the environment while remaining safe, stable, and secure throughout their use.
Instructions
- Use up to 25 pipe cleaners to recreate your favorite structure. Your structure needs to be free standing. Free standing means your structure cannot be held, taped or propped up to a wall or furniture, it must stand on its own. Don’t have pipe cleaners? Use an alternate material or find something around your house that would be a good substitute.
- Plan the design of your structure: How will you use these pipe cleaners? Hint: Engineers often draw their ideas.
- Build your structure: You can bend, twist, or cut your pipe cleaners to build your design.
The Engineering Design Cycle
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