The Cargo Arrived Safely!

This week our 8th graders have been busy learning about the atmospheric and topographical conditions on Mars as they take part in a Mars Rover Design Challenge in class.  They were asked to design and build a "self-propelled transport vehicle" prototype that would successfully transport 125g at least 1m safely and securely.  Their prototypes were to be designed and built using only recyclable or reusable every-day household items.  What they created was amazing!


Each student was responsible for coming up with their own design for the challenge.. and we had a great variety of designs be built and tested.  While not all the prototypes were successful in transporting the 125g weight the full distance, they were all very creative and thoughtful.

After our testing we spent a short time connecting with the students on how we responded to the challenge using a process called the Design Cycle.  Hopefully, this short and fun activity will not only help break the ice with our 8th graders but also get them thinking about what successful design looks and feels like.

Please see the slideshow below or visit the gallery for some of the amazing images and action from this challenge.