Complex Problem Solving and Imperfect Solutions
The Engineering Process in Kindergarten
Kindergarten and Primer girls have been practicing the steps of the Engineering Design Process (Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Improve) as they work to engineer a solution for Penny, a dog in need of shade.
During the ASK step, the girls asked themselves what a shelter is, and brainstormed a list of different types of shelters. They then moved on to roofs and tested different roof styles and sizes. Then, they worked to determine which one would provide the most shade for Penny. Exploring available materials was next, and all three classes selected craft foam, aluminum foil, and black construction paper as the materials they would make the darkest shade for Penny.
Imagining the design of their roof, and then working with their partner to design a plan and put it down on paper allowed them to practice compromise and negotiation. Finally, after asking, imaging, and planning, they worked with their partners to create a roof for Penny the dog! What comes next? Thinking about their work and what they might do differently if they were how they might improve their roof and provide Penny with even more shade!
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Imagining the design of their roof, and then working with their partner to design a plan and put it down on paper allowed them to practice compromise and negotiation. Finally, after asking, imaging, and planning, they worked with their partners to create a roof for Penny the dog! What comes next? Thinking about their work and what they might do differently if they were how they might improve their roof and provide Penny with even more shade!
The Hockaday School
Within the private school community, The Hockaday School is an independent college-preparatory day school for girls from grades PK–12 located in Dallas, Texas. Students realize their limitless potential through challenging academic curricula, arts, athletics, and extracurricular programs so that they are inspired to lead lives of purpose and impact.
The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational, admissions, financial aid, athletic, and other policies and programs.
The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, creed, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational, admissions, financial aid, athletic, and other policies and programs.