Grade 7 French Immersion students in Mr. Sachowski’s class recently took learning to new heights with their exciting Structures: Form and Function unit. The culminating project challenged them to plan and construct a structure capable of protecting an egg from the forces of nature—and gravity itself—when thrown through the air.
The project emphasized key engineering concepts such as form and function, internal and external forces, resistance, and structural integrity. Students explored terms like compression, tension, torsion, and gravity, testing their knowledge through hands-on experimentation. By considering elements such as the center of gravity, symmetry, and material selection, they engineered structures that were not only functional but also visually impressive.
Each prototype was rigorously tested to identify and address potential structural failures. Students meticulously adjusted their designs, ensuring their structures could resist the impact of landing and keep their eggs intact. On the big day, five out of six structures met the project’s goal, showcasing the students’ ability to turn theoretical concepts into practical success.
"This is the 15th year I’ve done this project, and it’s always a big hit,” said Mr. Sachowski. “The students are so engaged in their hands-on learning. Seeing their excitement as they test their designs and learn from their results is incredibly rewarding.”
This project not only taught students about engineering principles but also fostered creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. It’s another example of how experiential learning brings education to life at STAHS.