3rd grade builds with marshmallows and toothpicks

Our 3rd graders were challenged with building the tallest structure they could with 100 toothpicks and mini-marshmallows.  They worked on this project in teams after they designed their own plan.  We use the Engineering Design Process in our work on these challenges.

We first set up the "Ask" or the parameters of the challenge.  The students are given time to simply sit and imagine ideas.  Then they start their Plan.  This usually involves drawing out their idea in their journal or booklet.  After they have explained their Plan to me, I put them into groups where they can talk out a final plan that the whole group agrees to build.  Then they are ready to start the Create phase!  After they have built their first attempt, they test it and make necessary improvements.  We have decided that we need to add another step to this process called Share.  After every team has had a chance to succeed at the challenge, the teams get up in front of class to share their project and, more importantly, their process of getting to success.  

Here are some pictures of their presentations.  I was so proud of what they were able to build and the learning that came from the process of attempting several times, failing, and cooperation within the team.  Way to go, 3rd grade!

Here are some pictures of the process: