🌉 I6 Bridges & Structures

A river has cut Gizmo Village in two. The villagers need a bridge that is light, strong and safe, and they have hired you.

Inventors, Intermediate. Engineer Stamp: Bridge Boss.

Lessons

1. The truss bridge: Look at any big bridge: triangles everywhere! Why triangles?
2. The arch bridge: The Romans built arches that still stand after 2,000 years. What is the secret?
3. Load test lab: Engineers test bridges before anyone crosses them. Today, so do you.
4. Moving bridges: the drawbridge: Some bridges must move! How do you lift a bridge safely?
5. Design Day: Bridge the river: The villagers are paying per part, so a light bridge wins the contract!
6. Showcase: Bridge Busters: Load until it sags… or breaks! Countdown together as each coin goes on.

Design challenge

Build a bridge that spans 30 cm and holds the most coins per part used.

Engineering ideas

• Triangles Are Strong
• Frames
• Centre of Gravity

Standards: 3-5-ETS1-1, 3-5-ETS1-2, 3-5-ETS1-3, 3-PS2-1