What is engineering?

This resource provides an introduction to engineering for primary children. It can be used for a whole school assembly with follow-on inquiry work, or with one class, and would be suitable for working with a STEM Ambassador.  The resource aims to break down preconceptions about engineering, looks at what engineering is and what different engineers do.   The inspiration for the resource comes from the associated Born to Engineer video which focuses on the design of a wing suit for base jumping: an extreme sport inspired by the ability of flying squirrels to glide from one tree to another.

Teaching activities are provided which link engineering to adaptations of animals, showing how nature may sometimes inspire the design and engineering of a variety of products.  There are also links to scientific enquiry through ideas and evidence in science: that science is about thinking creatively to try to explain how living and non-living things work, and to establish links between causes and effects.

These activities count as two challenges for a CREST SuperStar Award.  

‘‘The CREST Awards scheme is the British Science Association’s flagship programme for young people. It is the only nationally recognised accreditation scheme for STEM project work (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects, providing science enrichment activities to inspire and engage 5-to-19-year olds. 

Register your award here.