E-Fabrication · Unit 02
Cardboard Structure Build
Low-Tech Structures · Hand tools + basic materials
Today’s challenge
Create a stable structure for a clearly defined user.
Grade 3 focusSmall models, simple measurement, teacher-provided tests, and one purposeful revision.
Grade 5 focusLoad ratios, repeated trials, tradeoff analysis, and material-efficiency scores.
Success example · inspiration, not a design to copy
Look closely. What makes this successful?
The structure stands steadily and supports the intended user or load.
What to do
- Understand. Read the challenge. Circle the important need, rule, or safety limit.
- Plan. Use the thinking spaces below before you begin making.
- Make. Build, model, code, practice, or investigate carefully with your team.
- Check. Use evidence—not guesses—to decide what worked.
- Improve or explain. Make one useful change or share your strongest conclusion.
Engineer’s thinking
1. Draw and label your plan before building.
2. List the materials, parts, or digital tools you will use.
3. Record one change you make while building.
Evidence check
Show what you learned.
Your teacher will look for: A first structure that meets the size constraint plus a labeled sketch showing supports.
My evidence
My next step
Exit reflection
Today I learned that because .
Next time I will .
How independently did I work?□ I needed coaching□ I worked with my team□ I can teach this skill