Hands-On Engineering

"Engineering is a form of design, and design is a component of engineering" (from the introduction). Engineering and design are an integral part of our modern world from the simplicity of paper airplanes to the towering complexity of skyscrapers. Whether you are solving a problem or simply understanding a need that's out there, the skills and procedures learned in these hands-on projects will help encourage students to analyze the challenge, innovate ideas and create solutions. Each project is clearly defined from the subject and skills covered to the materials needed, the vocabulary learned, and the purpose and objectives of the project. Preparation and procedure instructions are all step-by-step, making each project very easy to follow for individuals or groups. The book includes both teacher and student material. Each project has an introduction addressed to the teacher (of a group, though it can be easily adapted for individual use) along with several consumable pages addressed to the student. Consumable pages are reproducible for families and classrooms. Windmills, bridges, bungee, stealth, parachute, barrels, hoist, raft the 26 projects engage numerous interests through both static and mobile design exploration. So grab your hard hat and leather gloves there are some problems to solve here! - Zach