Each model encourages students to plan, build, test, and improve their designs—building STEM confidence and aligning with key Science, Computer Science, and Wellness outcomes in Grade 5.
elevator
Focus: Discover how design meets needs while building teamwork through a functional elevator model.
Subject Connections:
Science – Energy and the Environment
Describe how energy produces motion in systems.
Identify how design affects safety and function.
Computer Science – Design and Problem Solving
Use the design process to solve a problem.
Build, test, and improve in teams.
Well-Being
Collaborate, share ideas, and solve problems together.
Show responsibility and perseverance during challenges.
helicopter
Focus: Explore how lift and drag make flight possible.
Subject Connections:
Science – Energy and the Environment
Understand how forces like lift and drag affect motion.
See how energy moves parts of a system (rotor blades).
Explore how design impacts function and efficiency.
Computer Science – Design and Problem Solving
Build, test, and improve the model.
oil pump
Focus: Learn how mechanical systems move non-renewable resources.
Subject Connections:
Science – Energy and the Environment
Understand how oil is extracted and moved using energy.
Explore how system parts work together to perform a task.
Identify renewable vs. non-renewable resources.
Computer Science – Design and Problem Solving
Build and improve a model using the design process.
