Learner Description: This activity is appropriate for middle school S.T.E.A.M. students learning about bridge design.

Introduction

Bridges have always been an important part of transportation. They allow us to cross places that are otherwise impassable such as streams, rivers, and other roadways. Bridges can be as simple as laying a log over a stream to a very complex bridge such as the Golden Gate Bridge that stretches over one mile across the Golden Gate Channel. In this project, you will become an expert on one of the five main types of bridges, its history, and importance. You will then share your new-found knowledge with your base group. Also, you will hear about the other bridge types from the other experts in your group.

Instructions

The class will be split into five base groups. Each base group will have five people in the group. There is a basket at each base group. Within your base group, pick a piece of paper out of the basket. You will find a number on your paper. That will be your expert group. Then get together with your expert group and research the questions listed below. You will use the links in the table at the bottom of the page to find your answers. After you have gathered your information, go back to your base group and share what you have learned. By the end of the activity, all students will understand the importance of the five main types of bridges.

Questions for Expert Groups

1. What is the history of your bridge?
2. How is your bridge constructed?
3. What are the advantages of building your bridge?
4. What are the disadvantages of building your bridge?