✓Lesson Snapshot
Student Objective
I can design a small aerospace support system using criteria, constraints, sketches, and a build plan.
Main Activity
Team mini-challenge planning, concept sketching, criteria/constraints, and build plan development.
Deliverable
Problem statement, sketch, criteria/constraints, and build plan
Tools / Materials
Notebook, graph paper, planning worksheet, decision matrix, approved classroom materials
1ProblemUnderstand the challenge and why it matters.
The mini-challenge is a small readiness test. Your team must show that you can define a problem, make a plan, choose materials, work safely, and prepare evidence before building.
2ConceptLearn the engineering idea or skill.
A clear build plan reduces wasted time and unsafe decisions. Engineers identify the user or purpose, criteria, constraints, materials, steps, roles, and testing method before fabrication begins.
3ApplyUse the skill in a guided task.
Choose or receive a mini-challenge option: drone landing zone marker, payload support fixture, rocket component stand, VEX mechanism test base, wind/motion test fixture, or approved custom option. Create at least one concept sketch and select a design direction.
4DocumentRecord your evidence and decisions.
Submit or record a problem statement, criteria, constraints, concept sketch, materials list, tool needs, team roles, and build/test plan.
5ReviewCheck quality and identify your next step.
Your plan should be specific enough that another team could understand what you intend to build, how you will build it, and how you will know if it works.
Lesson Resources
Use these files and shared website resources when they support today’s work.
Project Planning Worksheet
Use to organize team roles, tasks, materials, and build steps.
Open ResourceDecision Matrix
Use to compare mini-challenge concepts and justify your design direction.
Open ResourceTeam Contract
Use to set expectations for team communication, roles, and accountability.
Open ResourceEngineering Graph Paper
Use for notebook sketches, layouts, systems diagrams, and planning work.
Open Resource