Process

 

Although this is a project designed for partners, you will need to do research individually, and then share your findings during group time.

  1. To understand how forces impact bridges, check out this video on bridges.  You may scroll down to see more information on bridges and forces.  This site is good with pictures and illustrations.
  2. You will now need to see how various forces impact bridges.  About.com has a very good interactive site which shows different forces which bridges face.
  3. Next, you need to look at different bridges react to forces placed upon them.  PBS Television’s Nova Online has a quick game you can play to teach you which bridge is appropriate for the right location.
  4. You may also view different bridge types.  This is an excellent page for viewing models of actual bridges.  This is another good site for seeing various types of bridges.
  5. You and your partner will each draw a bridge on the 8 ˝” x 11” graph paper.  You must draw 3 views (end view, side view, top view)
  6. Once you and your partner are done, you will share your drawings with each other.  Your task is to cooperatively come up with an ideal design, and draw it on the 11”x 17” graph paper for construction.
  7. Students will each be given 10 pieces of 2’ balsa wood to construct their bridge.