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Single-Load Bridge
The initial work of Paper Bridge involves students
getting used to and Messing
About with the bridge-testing apparatus-- a horizontal
piece of lumber with two tacks from which a sheet of
paper holding a water bottle on a hook is hung. In MOVIE
1, science teacher Nancy starts off by differentiating
between science and design experiments. She then gives
her students a written pre-test, reviews the challenge,
and gives instructions on what is the key measure of
success for this bridge. It must sustain the load for
10 seconds, while being made with as little paper as
possible. In the latter part of MOVIE 1, you might look
for how the male and female teams made their design
decisions differently. Notice especially whether discussions
preceded design actions or not. Listen to how students
explain the phenomena that drives their designing, while
noting the plans they have for the next iteration of
their designs.
NOTICE: Folding weakens paper -- the connections between
the paper's long fibers are disrupted. Finding the place
in the center of the paper to cut the hole from which
the water bottle is hung, without folding the paper.
Also, warn students of paper's properties when folded
so that between classes they don't store their bridges
by folding them into the books.
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