About this resource
Students completing this thinking challenge will design a car that can float in water. The car must be functional both in and out of the water. Students should think critically about how this vehicle could be helpful and why it could be useful. How could it be used and for what purpose? This should help students start thinking about the design before worrying about technicalities. After brainstorming some initial purposes students can start deciding how this would be possible. Students can compare and contrast notes and help one another come up with the best design. Students should provide reason for their design and explain how and why it could work given the right materials and circumstances.
Modifications for All Learners: Verbal and written directions should be given. Developing a prototype of one of their ideas may challenge students further.
Curriculum & Standards
Related General Curriculum / Common Core Area
Problem-Solving/Creativity/Critical Thinking
Related Curriculum / Common Core Standard
AASL Main Standard(s):
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. C. Share - Learners engage with the learning community by: 2. Co-constructing innovative means of investigation. D. Grow - Learners develop through experience and reflection by: 1. Iteratively responding to challenges.
I. INQUIRE Build new knowledge by inquiring, thinking critically, identifying problems, and developing strategies for solving problems. A. Think - Learners display curiosity and initiative by: 1. Formulating questions about a personal interest or a curricular topic.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
MS-ETS1-1. Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.
What students will do
- Students will design a car that could float in water, that is functional both in and out of the water.
- Students compare and contrast designs with classmates.
- Students participate in discussion with classmates.
Explore the creative process by problem-solving and thinking critically.
Resources Needed
Computers, research tools, brainstorming materials, whiteboards, paper, writing utensils, etc...
How learning is assessed
- Students have designed a car that could float in water, that is functional both in and out of the water.
- Students have compared their own design to classmate's designs.
- Students have discussed their ideas with classmates.