In my kids’ STEM classes that I teach for ages 3 – 8, we dedicate one quarter to learning about engineering. One thing we cover is the engineering method.
We want to emphasize that it’s a process. It’s not: do something once, exactly like the teacher tells you to, and then you’re done.
Instead, it’s: thinking first about what you want to do, then considering available supplies and brainstorming how you’ll use them, then starting to do hands-on work, knowing it might not work right the first time, but that’s OK, because you can always tweak it or re-build it. Our goal is to teach not just how to build the project of the day, but also a growth-based mindset approach to life – where they view themselves as competent, willing to take on a challenge, and learn from their mistakes. They learn that hard work and persistence will help them accomplish their goals.
We use a song to reinforce the engineering process.
Building and Inventing
Words by Peter and Janelle Durham. Tune: Bully in the Alley. (tune here.)
Look at me, I’m building and inventing,
Way, hey, building and inventing
Look at me, I’m building and inventing,
Yes I am an engineer.*
When there’s a challenge I want to do
Way, hey, building and inventing
Here’s the steps that I always use.
Yes I am an engineer.
I brainstorm ideas from which to choose
Way, hey, building and inventing
I look for supplies that I can use
Yes I am an engineer.
Next it’s time to build my creation
Way, hey, building and inventing
As I work I get more inspiration
Yes I am an engineer.
I test things out to see what works and then
Way, hey, building and inventing
I tweak and mend and do the test again
Yes I am an engineer.
My work is done, the challenge has been met
Way, hey, building and inventing
It may be my best invention yet.
Yes I am an engineer.
Look at me, I’m building and inventing,
Way, hey, building and inventing
Look at me, I’m building and inventing,
Yes I am an engineer.
*We end our verses “‘Yes, I am an engineer.” You could end with “Here at [name of school].” Or “I’m an inventor now.”
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