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IED Unit 0 • Lesson 0.8

Prototype Build

Focus Question: How do engineers turn a plan into a prototype while documenting changes?

View Lesson PlanWhat You SubmitBack to Unit 0

Your lesson guide

Objective

Fabricate components using the approved design and safe procedures. Check fit with the provided rocket throughout the build. Document changes from the approved plan and explain why they were necessary.

Materials

1 × 12 in × 18 in foam-board sheet 20 craft sticks 10 straws

Plan your time

Suggested work block: 45–60 minutes. Physical builds and projects may span several classes; follow your teacher’s schedule.

Mission Briefing

Today’s Plan

Every task advances the same Rocket Launch Pad Design Challenge.

Learning Targets

  • Fabricate components using the approved design and safe procedures.
  • Check fit with the provided rocket throughout the build.
  • Document changes from the approved plan and explain why they were necessary.

Success Looks Like…

The prototype is complete, the rocket can be installed and removed, and the build record explains any important deviations from the final drawing.

Project connection: Your work today becomes evidence used in the next stage of the Engineering Design Process.
Prototype

Build the approved design

Fabrication is part of the engineering process. If reality forces a change, document it.

DefineImagineSelectDevelopBuildTestImproveCommunicate
Day 1

Fabricate the primary structure

  1. Review certification status and the approved cutting layout.
  2. Measure and cut foam-board components.
  3. Prepare craft sticks, straws, and string as required by the plan.
  4. Assemble the base and primary supports.
  5. Use the provided rocket for controlled fit checks.
  6. Add major braces and allow hot-glue joints to cool before loading.
  7. Photograph or sketch the build status before cleanup.
Day 2

Complete, brace, and inspect

  1. Complete the rocket-support interface.
  2. Add planned bracing and structural connections.
  3. Confirm the rocket installs and removes without damage.
  4. Check the 12 in × 12 in footprint and 12 in pad-height limits.
  5. Check that the structure stands on its own.
  6. Complete workmanship and safety cleanup.
Build Record

Do not quietly change the design

Original PlanWhat Changed?Why?Evidence / Observation
Describe the planned feature.Describe the change.Explain the reason.Fit issue, material behavior, measurement, etc.

Engineering rule: A change made during fabrication is still a design decision. Record it.

Mission Debrief

What You Submit

Required Deliverable

Completed Launch Pad Prototype + Build Record

Submit the complete team evidence required by this lesson. Use clear labels, dimensions, test data, and reasoning where applicable.

Project Resources

Launch Pad Challenge Reference

Standard Team Materials

  • 1 × 12 in × 18 in foam-board sheet
  • 20 craft sticks
  • 10 straws
  • 48 in string
  • Hot glue as needed

Core Constraints

  • Use the provided rocket; do not modify it.
  • 12 in × 12 in maximum footprint.
  • 12 in maximum pad height, not including the rocket.
  • Rocket must be installable and removable.
  • Use only approved team-kit structural materials.
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Build your lesson report

Checkpoint: is your evidence ready?
  • Check calculations, units, labels, and measurements against the activity requirements.
  • Record what actually happened, including unexpected results.
  • Explain what you changed and why; attach required drawings, photos, CAD, or code in your classroom assignment.

Submit the evidence specified in the activity and your classroom assignment. The report below collects your notes, calculations, observations, and reflections; attach any required drawings, photos, CAD, or code separately.

A PDF download is not a submission. Review it, then upload it and any required attachments through your classroom assignment system.