STEM VOCAB
This is a first version of a solution that engineers build or create so they can test it.
What is a prototype?
This shape is commonly used in trusses because it resits changing shape.
What is a triangle?
This is the first major step when engineers are given a problem to solve.
What is identifying/defining the problem?
What is compression?
What is Coach Cannon's first name?
What is Emily?
These are the specific requirements a successful design must meet.
What is criteria?
This is the horizontal structural member that supports a load.
What is a beam?
Engineers do this to a prototype to find out whether it meets the criteria.
What is testing?
This force pulls or stretches a material apart.
What is tension?
What sports does Coach Cannon coach?
What is volleyball and softball?
These are the limitations that engineers have to work within when creating a solution.
What are constraints?
The location where a structure first bends, cracks, separates, or breaks.
What is a failure point?
After testing a prototype, engineers use the results to do this.
What is improve/redesign?
A bridge's bottom members are being pulled apart by a load. Which force are they experiencing?
What is tension?
Who is Coach Cannon's favorite artist?
Taylor Swift
When weight is placed on a bridge, the force travels through different parts of the structure toward the supports. What is this pathway called?
What is a load path?
The top of the bridge is being pushed togther and the bottom is being pulled apart. Name BOTH forces.
What are compression and tension?
Why don't engineers simply build their final product immediately?
Because they need to test ideas, find problems, and improve the design.
A bridge's top members are being pushed together by a load. Which force are they experiencing?
What is compression?
What is Coach Cannon's favorite animal?
What is an otter?
A bridge is designed so that the left and right sides are nearly identical. What design principle is being used, and why can it help the bridge?
What is symmetry?
Engineers use this to strengthen a connection between two or more members by spreading the force across a larger area.
What is a gusset?
Put these in the correct order: Test, Define the Problem, Improve, Design, Identify Criteria and Constraints.
Define Problem - Identify Criteria and Constraints - Design - Test - Improve
Why are triangles useful in bridge trusses?
They resist shape change and help distribute forces, making the structure more stable.
What is Coach Cannon's favorite thing to say when her students are talking?
What is "Why are we talking?"