Engineering Explorations

​Art classes use problem solving on a daily basis for deeper understanding and the internalization of subject matter. When we build sculptural works, these connections become a bit more obvious. From time to time some art explorations finish a bit earlier than expected, or there's an odd day where you do not want one class to get further ahead than the others. This is sometimes when I inject these engineering explorations into my classes. These are usually one-day explorations the most simple of supplies like tape and paper.

Strength Pillar: With 50 sheets of copy paper, 6ft of tape, and 1 scissor, groups of 4 to 6 create a stand that is taller than 8 inches that will hold a school textbook. As groups finish, we also test to see which pillar holds the most books, or even the weight of a student. (Below)

The Plank: With 4 sheets of 18 x 24 inch paper (or 20 sheets of copy paper) 1 scissor, and 6 ft. of tape, students (groups of 4 to 6) create the longest possible free standing plank that extends out from a pillar or wall. I have also done this as a silent project, cutting off 2 inches for every verbalization I record. (Below and top image)

Bridge: With 50 sheets of copy paper, 6ft of tape, and 1 scissor, groups of 4 to 6 create a bridge that spans the distance between 2 tables a set distance. I usually choose 12 inches because it is slightly longer than the sheet of paper but not unreasonable. Weight is added to the bridge little by little and weighed when the bridge collapses. Showing students how to roll tubes from copy paper around a pencil may be helpful.

​Paper Towers: With 4 sheets of 18 x 24 inch paper (or 20 sheets of copy paper) 1 scissor, and 6 ft. of tape, students (groups of 4 to 6) create the tallest possible free standing tower. I have also done this as a silent project, cutting off 2 inches for every verbalization I record.

If you do an engineering exploration in your classroom, please share it below.