Define Engineering Problems
Grade 3 - Science - Building Confidence

NameDate
A bridge must hold 20 washers and use only paper and tape. What is the criterion?
- look colorful
- hold 20 washers
- use only paper and tape
- work during lunch
Why identify criteria before building?
- criteria show how to judge success
- criteria are random decorations
- criteria erase the problem
- criteria replace testing
Which evidence helps define a stronger problem statement?
- the paper is white
- the table is near a wall
- the paper ramp bends when the toy car rolls over it
- the room has a clock
A garden path floods after storms. Which need should the design address?
- move or block extra water safely
- make the path longer only
- ignore rain
- change every flower color
Which statement clearly defines an engineering problem?
- The desk is brown.
- Cups exist.
- Students like water.
- Design a cup holder that keeps a cup from tipping on a desk.
Which question helps define a problem?
- Who can guess first?
- Which color is prettiest?
- Can we skip testing?
- What must the solution do?
Which is a criterion for a classroom tower challenge?
- stand at least 30 cm tall
- use only 20 straws
- work on one desk
- finish in 15 minutes
Which is a constraint for a classroom tower challenge?
- stay upright
- use only 20 straws
- stand at least 30 cm tall
- hold a small flag
A bridge must hold 20 washers and use only paper and tape. What is the constraint?
- use only paper and tape
- hold 20 washers
- carry more books
- make any material
What should happen before choosing a solution?
- build without a goal
- ignore materials
- define the problem, criteria, and constraints
- pick a favorite without evidence