PURPOSE: Use the linking sticks and Popsicle sticks to build anything of your choice. Options may include:

building or structure
piece of furniture
favorite character
form of transportation

Check out this short video on how the pieces were made using a laser cutter.

Step 1: Document

Document and share your process and final object by taking photographs and/or videos with your phone. Be sure not to include any faces. Email or text Indiana University Researchers at makengineeringkits@gmail.com. We may post these on our Facebook page – STEM Education Research Group at IUB (@IUBSTEMeducation).

Step 2:

Use the Index Card "Sketchbook" and markers to sketch out your idea(s).

KIT-CHAT

1. Predict the number of different linking sticks and Popsicle sticks you will need. How do you know?

2. What is your goal?

Step 3:

BUILD!

Step 4: KIT-CHAT

1. How close were your predictions to what you actually built? Why or why not?

2. How close does your construction look like your sketch?

3. What changes did you make during your construction?

4. What was your strategy? Describe your process.

5. What tips would you give others when making their construction?

6. This is a prototype or a scale model of a larger object. How much smaller do you think your construction is compared to the actual object? Tell me why you think this.

Step 5: DID YOU KNOW?

Architectural engineers use math and science principles to design buildings. They must consider functionality and structural demands. They need to be able to sketch diagrams and blueprints manually and through computer-aided drafting.

Similarly, civil engineers plan and supervise construction of infrastructures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and highways. They too will need a strong background in math and science, as well as computer knowledge, particularly knowledge of drafting software.