2nd Grade Builds with Straws

For this semester, 2nd grade is continuing with our unit on Structures, but we are moving into learning about man-made structures.  To introduce the unit, the students used straws and paperclips to build structures of their invention as an exploration.  Then, they were given the challenge to create a structure that would hold a folder on top without falling.  Several students were able to accomplish the challenge in various ways.  One element that was common in the stronger structures, though, was the use of triangles.  The students learned that this shape can withstand a lot more force than squares.

Speaking of challenges, we read a book called Rosie Revere, Engineer.  The little girl, Rosie, gives up inventing when she is laughed at.  But her aunt teaches her that the only way to fail is to quit.  This led into a discussion about mindsets, and we talked about Fixed and Growth mindsets.  There will be more conversations about this in the future.

The students also worked at Problem-Solving centers – completing Math Analogies and other challenges.

 

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