Grade 7 Students Build on STEAM Knowledge

It was Greenwood's first time attending the competition, which tests students' STEAM knowledge (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) as well as their ability to work both in pairs and in their full team. Students were put through three different bridge-building challenges using the West Point Bridge Designer software on their computers, and in the afternoon had to construct a physical bridge using various materials.

 

Their morning challenges consisted of designing three bridges using the software:

• Two-span bridge
• Open bridge
• Under-deck arch bridge

The Greenwood team had many great designs, as well as a few that didn't quite (s)pan out.

In the afternoon, the team collaborated to design a bridge that allowed a toy car to easily pass between two tables. They were judged on their structure quality, stability and overall design.

 

At the end of the day the students were thrilled to learn that their physical bridge won that portion of the competition. The judges commented on how structurally sound their design was, and really liked all of the artistic details they added. In the software portion of the competition the students placed 10th; they were proud of how well they worked together, despite having minimal experience with the software program used.

 

It was a great day overall, and we are looking forward to sending a team to the TechnoCup next year!