Define Engineering Problems
Grade 3 Science Worksheet - Building Confidence

Circle the answer.
A bridge must hold 20 washers and use only paper and tape. What is the criterion, the goal it must meet?
- use only paper and tape
- be built by Friday
- hold 20 washers
A bridge must hold 20 washers and use only paper and tape. What is the constraint, the limit?
- use only paper and tape
- stay flat when loaded
- hold 20 washers
Which sentence names an engineering problem?
- Our classroom has twenty desks.
- Students need a way to keep cups from tipping on desks.
- Cups come in many colors.
Students get too hot in the sun at recess. What problem should a design solve?
- making recess longer
- giving students more swings
- keeping students cool at recess
Which is a constraint for a classroom tower challenge?
- hold a small flag
- stand at least 30 cm tall
- use only 20 straws
Which is a criterion for a classroom tower challenge?
- stand at least 30 cm tall
- use only 20 straws
- be built in 15 minutes
A garden path floods after storms. Which need should the design address?
- move extra water away from the path
- make the path longer
- add more stones in the low spot
An umbrella stand must hold an umbrella upright without tipping. What need does it solve?
- making an umbrella open faster
- keeping an umbrella from falling over
- keeping an umbrella dry inside
A greenhouse must keep plants warmer than the outside air in winter. What problem does it solve?
- making plants grow without soil
- protecting plants from the cold
- keeping plants from needing water
A backpack strap keeps hurting a student's shoulder. Which need should a new strap design address?
- spread the weight so it does not hurt
- make the zipper bigger
- fit more books inside


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