Hey there! Today, we’re going to learn about solving problems like engineers do. Our friends at SciShow Kids, along with Squeaks, have a fun way to show us how!
Squeaks is trying to invite all his friends over to play, but writing letters to each one is taking forever. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to let everyone know at once? That’s where engineering comes in!
Engineering is all about solving problems. Engineers design solutions to make life better. So, let’s think like engineers to help Squeaks. First, we need to understand the problem: we need a way to reach all our friends at once.
Before creating a solution, we need more information. Who is this for? All our friends! And they live nearby, so maybe we can design something they can all see. We also need to make sure our friends who can’t see can still know when we want to play, so our design should use sound too.
Now that we have enough information, it’s time to design a solution. Squeaks and I came up with a device that raises a flag when we want our friends to come over. When we want some alone time, we can lower the flag again.
We built a small version of our design, called a prototype. A prototype helps us see if our idea works. Our device uses a sensor to see colors. When Squeaks holds something yellow up to the sensor, it raises the flag. A blue brick lowers it.
Our design works, but it’s too small. Engineers always look for ways to improve their designs. We need to make it bigger so all our friends can see it. What other problems can you solve by thinking like an engineer?
This episode was brought to you by LEGO Education. They create fun and engaging learning experiences that help students build important skills like critical thinking and creativity. With LEGO Education, students can learn through play and solve problems just like engineers!
Thanks for joining us today! Keep thinking like an engineer and see what amazing solutions you can come up with!
Build Your Own Communication Device: Gather some simple materials like paper, markers, string, and a small bell. Try to create your own version of Squeaks’ flag-raising device. Think about how you can use colors or sounds to let your friends know when it’s time to play. Once you’ve built your device, test it out and see if it works. Can you make it bigger or add more features?
Observation Walk: Take a walk around your neighborhood or school and look for different ways people communicate messages without speaking. Can you find signs, flags, or lights? How do these help people understand what to do or where to go? Draw pictures of what you see and think about how they solve problems like an engineer would.
Problem-Solving Challenge: Think of a problem you face at home or school. Maybe it’s hard to remember to do your homework or to clean up your toys. Try to think like an engineer and come up with a creative solution. Draw a picture of your idea and explain how it works. Share your idea with a friend or family member and see if they have any suggestions to make it even better!
