About this resource
Students brainstorm how to efficiently transport a large number of people quickly (for example, children to school), if buses did not exist. Students can use other forms of existing transportation to solve this problem, but it must successfully be able to transport a large number of students to and from school. To take this problem one step further one can add cost to the equation and analyze the most efficient idea based on how costly the project would be. This would be more appropriate for older students. Students can brainstorm ideas and discuss with one another solutions.
Modifications: 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
Math/Science/Problem-Solving/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: 3. Collaboratively identifying innovative solutions to a challenge or problem. 1. Expressing curiosity about a topic of personal interest or curricular relevance.
V. EXPLORE Discover and innovate in a growth mindset developed through experience and reflection. D. Grow - Learners develop through experience and reflection by: 1. Iteratively responding to challenges.
Related STEM Area: Engineering, math, problem-solving, creativity, critical thinking
NGSS Main Related Engineering Design Standard:
K-2-ETS1-1. Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
What students will do
- Students will develop a plan to efficiently transport a large number of people quickly (for example, children to school), if buses did not exist.
- Students will work in groups to brainstorm potential problems and solutions for this challenge.
- Students will select the best plan based on discussion within groups.
Explore the creative process by thinking critically and experimenting.
Resources Needed
Note-taking materials (whiteboards, chalkboards, pencil & paper), graph paper.
How learning is assessed
- Students have developed a plan to efficiently transport a large number of people quickly (for example, children to school), if buses did not exist.
- Each student group has brainstormed potential problems and solutions for this challenge.
- Each group has selected their "best" plan based on discussion within groups.