Storage Wars:
Students Explore STEM
through Container Design
Thanks to the rising popularity of “tidying experts,” it’s now easier
than ever to find the best methods for storing items like clothing
and cooking utensils.
But what’s the optimal container for a dozen donuts? Or your cell
phone, while it’s still charging? Or, perhaps, a human heart?
At Archbishop Ryan High School, these are real questions AP
Statistics and Calculus students tackle through the Container
Design Project. Overseen by Sister Alice Hess, IHM, the project
gives student real-world experience applying STEM
concepts as they design containers from scratch.
The process culminates in a competition and cash prizes.
In order to win, students must designate responsibilities
across their teams. They must manage their resources
to meet concrete deadlines. Finally, they must defend
their designs to a panel of 60 judges — including 20
professional engineers.
16