TheWeight of theWorld
Physics, math, and engineering concepts are brought to life through the hands-on project of designing and building a model bridge.
One of the more anticipated projects each year in the math department is the bridge project held in the Pre AP Algebra II class.
Each year Mrs. Pickering s Pre AP Algebra II classes compete to see who can build the strongest bridge out of popsicle sticks. When they are are all complete they are given a strength test to see how much weight they can hold. This year, first place went to Wyatt Webb & Caleb Penney. Their bridge held 318 pounds, and never collapsed.
This assignment is not only favorite of students it is a great opportunity to emphasize the benefits of pursuing higher education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics( STEM).
Guidelines for Bridge Project
1. Form a team of two people.
2. Only wooden Popsicle Sticks and waterbased glue such as Elmer s may be used to make your bridge. You can cut and shape them any way you want, but only Popsicle sticks and Elmer s glue may be used.
3. The bridge must sit on top of the box provided.
4. You may use no more than 250 Popsicle Sticks.
Above: Ja Myia Hadnot 10 & Tameiah Beatty 11 had a little fun while working on their bridge.
Right: Becky Pickering, with the assistance of Jaden Carter 11 is placing weights on the bridge to see how much it would hold. It maxed out as just over 318 lbs.
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