Technology/Engineering Learning Standards

Please note: Suggested eExtensions to learning in technology/engineering for grades PreK-5 are listed with the science learning standards. See pages 12-213467 (earth and space science), 31-38 (life science), and 46-51 5487(physical sciences) in the MSTECF document available under supplemental Materials.

Grades PreK-2

  1. Materials and Tools

    Broad Concept:

    Materials both natural and human-made have specific characteristics that determine how they will be used.

    1. Identify and describe characteristics of natural materials (e.g., wood, cotton, fur, wool) and human-made materials (e.g., plastic, Styrofoam).

    2. Identify and explain some possible uses for natural materials (e.g., wood, cotton, fur, wool) and human-made materials (e.g., plastic, Styrofoam).

    3. Identify and describe the safe and proper use of tools and materials (e.g., glue, scissors, tape, ruler, paper, toothpicks, straws, spools) to construct simple structures.

  2. Extensions to Learning in Technology/Engineering

    1. Paper Bridge Challenge

      Students create a bridge with a half sheet of regular 8-1/2" x 11" paper cut lengthwise. Adhesives may not be used for this project, but the students may fold, bend, or the cut paper to create their bridge. The students place the ends of their bridge on an even stack of books. Pennies are placed on the bridge to test its strength. (1.a, 2.a)

    2. Testing Food Glues

      This activity has students identify a simple machine, the lever, as a useful tool in testing glues and explore the properties of materials by finding out which food is the stickiest. The students assemble a balance scale with penny weights on one side and a cup glued to a paper plate on the other. The force of the penny weights separates the glued objects when enough pennies are added. After each test, students record their findings on a chart and share their results. (1.2, 2.1)

    3. Which roof is tops?

      Explore the advantages of different roof shapes (curved, A-frame, flat) for different climates or situations. (1.c, 2.a)

  3. Engineering Design

    1. Engineering design requires creative thinking and consideration of a variety of ideas to solve practical problems.

    2. Identify tools and simple machines used for a specific purpose, e.g., ramp, wheel, pulley, lever.

    3. Describe how human beings use parts of the body as tools (e.g., teeth for cutting, hands for grasping and catching), and compare their use with the ways in which animals use those parts of their bodies.

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Last modified: August 08, 2007 13:03:54