Engineering Practice: Apply Science Knowledge to Problem Solving

Engineers understand and apply science concepts as they make design decisions. Drawing on previous science knowledge or engaging in scientific investigations can strengthen engineering solutions.

“In-sulator”

A group of upper elementary students discuss the properties of insulating materials and their effect on heat transfer as they plan a solar oven. Watch & Reflect:

Reflection Questions

Students needed to understand that some materials conduct heat and some materials insulate heat, and that insulators will keep the heat from leaving the space it is insulating.

This engineering design challenge would support students’ understanding of energy transfer and aligns well to NGSS standard 4-PS3-4: “Apply scientific ideas to design, test, and refine a device that converts energy from one form to another.” This design challenge could be one part of a larger unit on energy for upper elementary students.

Related Practices: Communicate Effectively
Featured Unit: Designing Solar Ovens