Bridge Types: Tensile & Compressive Forces

Students explore how tension and compression forces act on three different bridge types. Using sponges, cardboard and string, they create models of beam, arch and suspension bridges and apply forces to understand how they disperse or transfer these loads.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Authors: Chris Valenti, Denali Lander, Denise W. Carlson, Joe Friedrichsen, Jonathan S. Goode, Malinda Schaefer Zarske, Natalie Mach

Build a Birdhouse

Students construct bird nests and birdhouses. They research birds of their choosing and then design houses that meet the birds' specific needs. It works well to conduct this activity in conjunction with a grades 9-12 woodshop class by partnering the older students with the younger students (but it is not required to do this in order to conduct the activity).

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Cost Comparisons

Students learn about the many types of expenses associated with building a bridge. Working like engineers, they estimate the cost for materials for a bridge member of varying sizes. After making calculations, they graph their results to compare how costs change depending on the use of different materials (steel vs. concrete). They conclude by creating a proposal for a city bridge design based on their findings.

Material Type: Activity/Lab

Authors: Denali Lander, Denise W. Carlson, Joe Friedrichsen, Jonathan S. Goode, Malinda Schaefer Zarske, Natalie Mach

Pipeline AZ - Construction & Architecture

Construction & Architecture Do you want to design, build, and maintain structures where people live, work, and play? This industry includes careers in designing, planning, managing, building, and maintaining the built environment. Careers in the architecture and construction industry involve designing and building homes, roads, and other structures. More than half of the occupations in this industry typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, specific designations range from less than a high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training for carpet installers to a bachelor’s degree and an internship for occupations such as architects.

Material Type: Interactive

Author: PipelineAZ