Using the Design Process
When can you use the design process?
Goal:
Goal:
You may have followed a version of the design process more often than you think. Every time you devise a plan to solve a problem, you design a solution. Now, we will use the design process to solve a problem.
During big storms, buildings risk falling over and getting damaged. Engineers must make sure to design them carefully. In this design challenge, you will build a tall tower out of newspaper that can withstand wind. You will test it by blowing at it. To build it, you may use only three full sheets of newspaper and 100 cm of transparent tape. Your tower may not be attached to the floor or any other surface. Answer the following questions about your design challenge.
What problem are you trying to solve in this challenge?
How will you know if you are successful in building a tall tower?
What materials are you allowed to use? Are there any other constraints?
| Your Responses | Sample Answers |
|---|---|
| You are trying to build a tall tower out of newspaper that is strong enough to withstand wind. | |
| The tower will not fall over when you blow on it. | |
| You are allowed to use three full sheets of newspaper and 100 cm of transparent tape. Your tower may not be attached to the floor or any other surface. | |
Activity
Click the Activity button below to see how you can follow the design process to build a strong tower.