Title: Introduction to Engineering Fundamentals

Grade Level: 9-12

Objective: - To introduce students to the basic concepts and principles of engineering - To develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills through hands-on activities - To foster creativity and innovation in engineering design

Materials: - Various building materials (e.g., popsicle sticks, straws, rubber bands, paper clips) - Construction paper - Scissors - Glue - Tape - Rulers - Markers - Engineering design notebooks

Lesson 1: Introduction to Engineering 1. Begin the lesson by discussing the definition and importance of engineering. 2. Introduce different engineering disciplines (e.g., civil, mechanical, electrical) and their applications. 3. Engage students in a brainstorming activity to identify everyday problems that engineers can solve. 4. Assign students to research and present on a specific engineering discipline.

Lesson 2: Engineering Design Process 1. Introduce the engineering design process (EDP) and its steps: define the problem, research, brainstorm, design, build, test, and improve. 2. Divide students into small groups and provide them with a design challenge (e.g., build a bridge that can hold a certain weight). 3. Guide students through the EDP, encouraging them to document their progress in their engineering design notebooks. 4. Have groups present their designs and reflect on the challenges faced during the process.

Lesson 3: Forces and Structures 1. Introduce the concept of forces and their effects on structures. 2. Discuss different types of forces (e.g., compression, tension, shear) and their applications in engineering. 3. Engage students in a hands-on activity where they build structures using various materials and test their strength. 4. Facilitate a class discussion on the importance of considering forces in engineering design.

Lesson 4: Electrical Circuits 1. Introduce the basics of electrical circuits, including components such as resistors, capacitors, and switches. 2. Demonstrate how to build a simple circuit using a battery, wires, and a light bulb. 3. Provide students with materials to build their own circuits and experiment with different configurations. 4. Discuss the importance of electrical circuits in various engineering disciplines.

Lesson 5: Introduction to Computer-Aided Design (CAD) 1. Introduce students to computer-aided design (CAD) software and its applications in engineering. 2. Provide a demonstration of basic CAD tools and functionalities. 3. Assign students a design project where they create a 2D or 3D model using CAD software. 4. Have students present their designs and discuss the advantages of using CAD in engineering.

Assessment: - Class participation and engagement during discussions and activities - Completion of engineering design notebooks documenting the design process - Presentation of design projects - Reflection on the challenges faced and lessons learned during the engineering design process