Without cranes, we wouldn’t be able to construct most of our buildings, assemble large structures, or transport heavy materials efficiently. They help us do jobs that are simply too big for humans to do alone. Engineers use cranes to solve big problems - literally!
Students work as teams of engineers to design, build, and test a simple crane or hoist using everyday materials able to lift the maximum mass possible before it falls over or breaks. Students will explore the principles of balance, structure and strength, and mechanical advantage. The crane that lifts the most mass the requisite height will be crowned the champion.
Watch the video below for an introduction to facilitating this activity.
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Engineering Type
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