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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Build a Shaduf

Build a Shaduf

From Engineering

Ancient farmers used a long wooden lever called a shaduf to lift water from rivers to irrigate crops and for other uses. This simple tool was incredibly effective at making it easier to move water. In this activity, you'll harness the power of a lever as you design and build a working model of a simple shaduf.

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Wind Can Do Work

Wind Can Do Work

From Renewable Energy

Use your engineering skills to design a windmill, then test how powerful the wind can be!

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Waterwheel

Waterwheel

From Wheels Make the World Go Round

Try this hands-on activity to learn more about wheels!

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Lift It!

Lift It!

From Levers Lessen the Load

Learn more about levers with this hands-on activity!

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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