Illumin8 Module 5.1: Engineering – What’s it all about?
In this Module, students explore what engineering involves and what an engineering job it like. In longer sessions, students explore different types or engineering through the interactive ‘My Big Tomorrow’ website or through a card matching activity.
This session’s challenge requires students to put themselves in the shoes of an engineer. They will use team work and problem solving skills to find a solution to the problem at hand. Students will design and build a device to transport an ‘aid package’ accurately over a long distance. Using their knowledge of levers students may choose to build a catapult, although they are not restricted in the creativity of their design.
This session would be a fantastic opportunity to invite along a guest speaker from an engineering field – this could act as a substitute to or complement the career exploration activity. Some places to enquire about guest speakers are: Engineers Australia, City Councils, Engineering firms and Universities. The engineer may be able to stay and engage in the Challenge activities and assist with testing and scoring. Ensure “Working With Children Checks” are in cleared for any session guests (systems vary in each state of Australia).
The Illumin8 Resources are aimed at 9 – 12 year olds.