A Transformation Central Training, the Engineering is Elementary® (EiE) project fosters engineering and technological literacy among children. EiE has created a research-based, standards-driven, and classroom-tested curriculum that integrates engineering and technology concepts and skills with elementary science topics. EiE lessons not only promote K-12 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning, but also connect with literacy and social studies.
Storybooks featuring children from a variety of cultures and backgrounds introduce students to an engineering problem. Students are then challenged to solve a problem similar to that faced by the storybook character. Through a hands-on engineering design challenge, students work in teams to apply their knowledge of science and mathematics; use their inquiry and problem-solving skills; and tap their creativity as they design, create, and improve possible solutions. In the end, students realize that everyone can engineer!
The Engineering is Elementary project also helps elementary school educators enhance their understanding of engineering concepts and pedagogy through professional development workshops and resources.
To learn more about Engineering is Elementary (EiE), view a short video at http://legacy.mos.org/eie/video/index.php.
A Sticky Situation: Designing Walls introduces students to materials engineering. Science concepts related to earth materials are reinforced as students learn about properties of earth material mixtures and engage in an engineering design challenge focused on designing mortar for a wall. This unit addresses the use of earth materials in the design and construction of technology. What properties make an earth material useful? Different materials have different properties, making them appropriate for different uses. Students investigate various earth materials (clay, sand, and soil) to be used in a mortar to build a stone wall. They then design a mortar mixture, taking advantage of the properties of these different materials, and plan, create, test, and improve their own walls.
Participants will receive the complete Teacher Guide, a copy of the Storybook: Yi Min's Great Wall, access to the numerous on-line resources, and be a part of an on-going supportive learning group.