Unit Overview

Students use their understanding of rock types and materials to engineer a replica of a rock carving.

  • Grades 1–5 (Designed for grades 3–5; includes modifications for grades 1–2.)
  • Setting: In school
  • Science connection: Rocks and minerals
  • 5 lessons (8–12 class sessions)

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

Students are introduced to the concepts of engineering and technology. (30–40 min.)

The class reads a storybook in which twins Gayla and Natasha explore the field of Materials Engineering as they identify a material to replicate a petroglyph (rock carving). (90–120 min., 2–3 sessions.)

Students carry out investigations to compare the properties of two different materials. (60–90 min., 1–2 sessions.)

Students sort and test materials to identify which ones might be good choices for replicating an artifact. (120–150 min., 2–3 sessions.)

Students follow the steps of the Engineering Design Process to imagine, plan, create, test, and then improve their own petroglyph replicas. (140–170 min., 2–3 sessions)

Videos

View all unit videos on YouTube

Sample How-to Video

Sample Classroom Video

What's Included?

  • Teacher Guide (PDF)
  • Illustrated Story (PDF)
  • Print Materials (PDF)
  • Additional Resources