Sixth graders test their bridges in science class

Sixth graders tested their popsicle stick bridges in science class this week, the culmination of an interdisciplinary project STEM project. Students are graded on the cost efficiency of the bridge, the load capacity (it must have a minimum load capacity of 10,000 grams), aesthetics, and the collaborative effort of each two-person team. In math class, students used their blueprints to assess the angles, incorporating their geometry skills. They used their technology skills to test their designs in the West Point Bridge software. If the design passed, they could move on to physically build the bridge and add their own personal designs. The bridges are tested in science class for how much weight they can hold before breaking. Many of the bridges held much more than the 10,000 gram minimum—success!