Simple Bridges from Ancient Times

Simple Bridges from Ancient Times

Bridges are not easy to construct. With all of the different types of support, it is important to pick the correct one for the area. Let's start with some paper models to get an idea of which bridge is the strongest.
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Magnetic Field Viewer

Magnetic Field Viewer

From Electricity

You can see magnetic fields in action with this easy-to-make viewer.

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Build a Craft Stick Catapult

Build a Craft Stick Catapult

From Engines!

Ancient armies used catapults in battle. But the catapult has been used as recently as World War I. In that war, soldiers used catapults to toss hand grenades at the enemy. Today, catapults are used to launch planes off the decks of huge ships called aircraft carriers. Because the runway is short on an aircraft carrier, the catapult helps get the plane into the air quickly. Try making your own!

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The STEM in Your Closet

The STEM in Your Closet

From The Science of Fashion

Have you ever really thought about what kind of science, engineering, and technology actually go into making your clothes? Now is your chance! The zipper on your jacket was at one time an engineering miracle. The shirt that has built-in protection from the sun’s ultraviolet rays is a scientific innovation that helps to keep you healthy. There is a world of science and engineering in your closet. Just open the door.

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Build the Eiffel Tower

Build the Eiffel Tower

From The Science and Technology of Marie Curie

Built in 1889 for the World Exposition, the Eiffel Tower honored the French Revolution. It also showcased national engineering and design expertise to an audience of global visitors. Originally intended as a temporary monument, it remains one of the world’s most visited landmarks. The structure of the tower itself is actually quite simple! To understand how its rivets and beams join, build a model of your own.

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Reviews

CLEAR Review (Clermont County Public library)
Recommended.
“An introduction to the science of bridge building.  It explains the engineering and physics that go into their creation and shows real-world applications.  Other topics discussed include safety, the inspection process, and the life of a civil engineer. The scientific method is presented as a means of problem solving.  Main ideas are demonstrated in a down-to-earth, engaging manner.” Click here to read more. 

School Library Connection
“This newest addition in the Explore Your World series introduces young readers to the concepts and vocabulary of bridge construction. Through trivia, photographs, cartoon illustrations, clear diagrams and links to online videos and primary sources, readers will explore how some of the world’s most extraordinary bridges were designed, created, and maintained. Opening with a timeline of bridges throughout history that includes a short introduction, this book enables young future engineers to explore the use of bridges to go over and under bodies of water. Five easy-to-read chapters explore the need for bridges, their engineering and design, types of bridges, building techniques, and famous bridges. A glossary, metric conversion table, resources and essential questions, and 25 hands-on STEM projects make this a fun and engaging must-have volume for every library serving young patrons. Index. Recommended.”

Detailed Book Description

Getting from one place to another sounds easy if you are on a straight piece of land, but what if you have to get over—or under—a body of water or a deep gorge? Build a Bridge! Bridges! With 25 Science Projects for Kids introduces readers ages 7 to 10 to the concepts and vocabulary of bridge construction through the lenses of history, science, engineering, math, and technology.

  • This nonfiction title for ages 7 through 10 introduces the engineering, geometry, and physics of bridges, including how they are designed, planned, and built.
  • Uses an inquiry-based approach to encourage readers to ask questions, define problems, carry out investigations, and reach their own conclusions about bridges and current construction ideas.
Available In:
Hardcover, $19.95
9781619305878
Paperback, $14.95
9781619305915
Includes: Table of Contents | Timeline | Glossary | Resources | Index | Metric Conversions Chart
Specs: 8 x 10 size | 4-color interior | 96 pages
Subject: Science
Content Focus: Engineering & Technology

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Timeline

Introduction
Let’s Explore Bridges

Chapter 1
Why Do We Need Bridges?

Chapter 2
Engineering and Design

Chapter 3
Types of Bridges

Chapter 4
Let the Building Begin!

Chapter 5
Famous Bridges

Glossary
Metric Conversions
Resources
Essential Questions
Index