Our Pre-K architects took on an exciting Architect’s Challenge this week, putting their creativity and problem-solving skills to the test! With only six blocks to build with, they had to think strategically about how to create a stable, sturdy, and interesting structure. Using graph paper, rulers, and other tools, they carefully sketched their designs, learning how to document their 3D creations in 2D form—just like the real architects and engineers they have been meeting and talking to.
As they built, they explored important architectural and engineering concepts such as: What makes a structure strong? How do materials and the environment influence design? What makes a structure interesting to people?
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Students discovered that a strong foundation and a well-balanced design help keep their buildings from toppling over, and they experimented with different stacking and balancing techniques. They also began using vocabulary that will support their formal learning later in the year—words like sturdy, balance, revise, foundation, and design.

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Beyond just building, students were thinking like engineers—asking questions, imagining possibilities, planning, creating, and improving their designs. Through this process, they will begin to understand how engineering and architecture solve real-world problems and help make buildings that are fair, equitable, and useful for people.

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Each student is taking a unique approach to the challenge, proving that even with the same materials, there are never-ending possibilities for design and creativity!

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