Structures: Discovering Shapes and Stability Lesson Plan

Ashley Dalrymple

Time Frame: This lesson will take a double science period.

Materials:

Brad fasteners

Attached sheet

4 strips of paper (~9 long and ~1 thick with holes on each end) for each student

1 strip of paper (~12 long and ~1 thick with holes on each end) for each student

Outcomes:
Outcome: SM3.2-Assess the function and characteristics of strong, stable, and balanced natural and
human-built structures.
c. Assess how 2-D shapes (e.g., rectangle, triangle, circle, square, hexagon, and octagon) and
3-D objects (e.g., dome, arch, and cylinder) provide strength, stability, and balance to
natural and human-built structures.
Learning Target:
I can explain how 2D shapes create strength and stability
(This outcome is broken into more than one lesson to cover 3D shapes)
Lesson/Activity:
1. Remind students of our last lesson, and direct them to our new I can statement on the board.
2. Remind students of the difference between a 2D and 3D shape.
3. Explain to students that we will be making different 2D shapes today to test their strength and
stability.
4. Get the helpers to hand out 4 brad fasteners to each student, a sheet to each student, and
4 medium strips + one long strip. See attached page to work through together.
Differentiated Instruction:
I have a few students who need dotted pages to help with neatness and fine motor skills. Their sheets
have been modified to help.

Name: ________________________________

Shapes That Add Strength and Stability

1. With your partner, make a square with your strips of paper. Use a
brad nail to join them together, like this:

With your partner, discuss how stable your structure is.

2. Does your shape move easily? Yes/ No __________________
3. Is this a stable shape? Yes/ No _________________________
4. How can you make this shape more stable?
____________________________________________________________
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Draw a picture of what your new shape looks like:

5. What you added to your square is called a diagonal brace. What

other 2D shape do you see once youve added a diagonal brace?
________________________

6. Now with your partner, make a triangle with your strips of paper and
your brad nails. Draw a picture of your shape:

After making your shape, answer these questions.

7. Does your new shape move easily? Yes/ No _________________
8. Is this a stable shape? Yes/ No _________________________

9. What conclusion can you make about squares and triangles after this
experiment?
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