Midland School Fifth Graders Build Wooden Bridges
Midland School fifth graders stepped into the roles of engineers to design and construct their own bridges, using a variety of wooden sticks. As part of the challenge, the students worked in groups to build a two-foot bridge strong enough to support cans of cat food.
“The students did an excellent job participating and being flexible with their thinking,” teacher Julie Vinci said. “One team even created a curved bridge – the first time a group has attempted this in 10 years. Not only was it strong, but it was also aesthetically pleasing.”
Using coffee stirrers, tongue depressors, popsicle sticks or a combination of all three, the fifth graders carefully planned and assembled their structures. They tested their durability by adding cans of cat food to see how much weight the bridges could hold. The hands-on activity seamlessly tied into the students’ math unit on geometry while also reinforcing important skills, such as problem-solving, communication and teamwork.
The students completed the project with guidance from educator Gary Mack of the Rye Arts Center, who provided the materials and supported the activity alongside parent volunteers.