As a teacher, you’re supposed to have all the answers–but sometimes, you just don’t. LinkEngineering, the National Academy of Engineering’s professional learning portal for PreK-12 educators, has you covered with a network of engineering experts and seasoned STEM teachers who can provide inspiration, instructional tips, live video chats, resources, and advice.

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Filed under: For Teachers, K-12 Outreach Programs, Special Features, Web Resources | Comments Off on Connect With LinkEngineering

Tags: design process, Internet Resources, LinkEngineering, National Academy of Engineering, online professional learning, Resources for Teachers, STEM education, Teacher Resources, Web Resources

In this activity, teams of kids in grades 4-7 follow the engineering design process to invent a holder for six cans that’s animal-safe, sturdy, convenient, and easy to carry. They learn why discarded plastic rings can be a problem for wildlife and brainstorm animal-friendly ways to package six cans. They then build, test, and redesign their system and discuss what happened.

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Filed under: Class Activities, Grades 6-8, Grades 6-8, Grades K-5, Grades K-5, Lesson Plans | 1 Comment »

Tags: Class Activities, design process, Design Squad Nation, Environmental Engineering, environmental protection, Grades 6-8, Grades K-5, plastic rings, six pack, wildlife