Unit Overview

Youth use the Engineering Design Process to design prosthetic devices for a variety of animals.

  • Grades 6–8
  • Setting: Out of school
  • Science connection: Needs of living things
  • 8 activities
  • 50–60 Minutes per activity

Standards alignment

We’ve developed each EiE unit with careful attention to educational standards in both science and technology/engineering. View Standards Alignments.

Unit Map

Youth are introduced to engineering as they work in groups to engineer a life vest for a model dog.

Youth play a quiz game to explore technologies. Then, they are introduced to their design challenge.

Youth engineer a model prosthetic elephant leg.

Youth engineer a model prosthetic eagle beak.

Youth engineer a model prosthetic fish tail.

Youth improve a model prosthetic fish tail.

Youth select characteristics for their own fish species and develop exhibit signs.

Youth communicate their work with visitors by hosting an exhibition.

Videos

Special Report Video

Introduces the field of biomechanical engineering through an interview with Tara Anderson, a researcher and engineer at the company 3D Systems. Use throughout the unit. (8:18)

What's Included?

  • Educator Guide (PDF)
  • Engineering Journal (PDF)
  • Special Report Video (YouTube)
  • Print Materials (PDF)