This week, test freestanding structures against different elements!
This March, The Journey Museum invites families to step into the role of engineers and designers, exploring how structures are built to last through time, force, and change. Participants are introduced to the Engineering Design Process, guiding them through real-world challenges that require planning, testing, failure, and redesign.
Learners will use materials creatively while working within constraints just like real engineers. Through building, testing, and improving their designs, participants discover how thoughtful design choices shape the strength, stability, and durability of structures all around us.
Each session follows the same design cycle: Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Test, Improve, and Share. Optional Engineer+ Challenge Cards provide added complexity for older learners ready to push their designs further.
This week, learners investigate why structures don’t exist in still environments. Participants design freestanding structures that must withstand movement, wind, and added weight. By testing against multiple forces and redesigning for stability, learners explore balance, center of mass, and the trade-offs engineers make when designing structures that must remain standing in changing conditions.
STEAM Saturdays are offered seasonally from October through April and are fun for the whole family. No need to pre-register, just bring your curiosity!
Morning Session: 10:30am - 11:00am
Afternoon Session: 2:00pm - 2:30pm
STEAM Saturdays are free with your daily admission or annual membership to the Journey Museum. Not a member? Become one today!