Structures timeline
Week 1

What is a structure?

Strength of paper- refer video on the left.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtUZcIDrwoo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMoHRaVSWnY

 

Week 2 - 3

Construct a bridge with 10 pieces of A4 paper.

This bridge should be able to span a distance of 30 cm and support as much weight as possible.

The winner is the one who has the highest ratio of mass supported to weight of bridge.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llhSEwUE6cY
     
Week 4 Construct a hydraulic cantilever bridge that spans a distance of 30 cm  
Week5 -7

Describe several different types of bridges and their unique design.
Explain how the design supports the massive forces applied to it and overcomes the force of gravity.
Where is each type of bridge used. Explain why.

Identify some of the different types of bridges around your neighbourhood. PPT presentation of between 6 and 8 bridge designs found around Melbourne.
Test

 
Week 8 - 10

Define the term
- centre of gravity.
- girder.
- tension
- compression

Describe the importance of centre of gravity to tall structures and how it is used to make tall structures more stable

Discuss the centre of gravity is crucial to the stability of sea going vessels.

Design a simple centre of gravity toy .

 
Week 11-12

Research how buildings are earth quake proofed.

Design and build the tallest, earth quake proof, structure that can support a 100 mL plastic beaker of sand. The structure must have a foot print no larger than 400 cm2

Each structure will be tested to failure. The score for each structure will be determined by the formula shown on the right..

Week 13-15 Design a more complex centre of gravity toy using magnetic forces.