Core Skills Analysis
Science
- Understanding of gravity and balance through the process of building the tower
- Experimenting with different methods to construct a stable tower, showcasing trial and error learning
- Observing the cause and effect relationship when the tower is knocked down with the exercise ball
- Exploration of structural integrity and weight distribution in the tower construction
Physics
- Application of force and motion in knocking down the tower with the exercise ball
- Exploration of center of gravity when stacking the top bricks on the chair
- Understanding of potential and kinetic energy during the tower-building process
- Experimenting with different strategies to ensure the tower's stability against external forces
Mathematics
- Counting the total number of bricks used in building the tower (25 bricks)
- Estimating the height of the tower based on the number of bricks used
- Exploring geometric concepts like shape, symmetry, and balance in tower construction
- Measuring and comparing the height of the tower with the student's own height
Tips
To encourage further learning and development, provide the student with challenges to build taller and more complex structures using Kick Bricks. Encourage them to document their process and analyze how different techniques affect the stability and height of their constructions. Additionally, introduce the concept of architectural design by discussing how different shapes and arrangements of bricks can impact the overall strength of the tower.
Book Recommendations
- Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty: Follow the story of a young boy with a passion for architecture and creative building projects.
- Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty: Join Rosie, a budding engineer, as she tackles innovative and imaginative challenges with determination.
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba: Discover the inspiring true story of a young boy who overcame obstacles to bring electricity to his village through creativity and engineering.