Bridges rely on tension and compression to keep them standing. Pairs test this principle by constructing simple bridges and applying a force to the center. Teams use the provided worksheet to record their observations of the reaction of the bridge materials before labeling the types of forces encountered at specific points. 

Concepts

compression, bridge design, bridges, suspension, suspension bridges, beams, force, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Find a video that highlights the forces on a bridge to use to reinforce the concepts learned in the activity
• Consider giving groups the materials and have them determine how to build each bridge instead of following the directions

Classroom Considerations

• Requires several different mediums to build model bridges
• The second of a 10-part series on bridges

Pros

• Contains a notes page in order to help individuals organize their thoughts
• The resource has a description of the major types of bridges that pupils test in the activity

Cons

• The Bridge Types & Forces Worksheet Answers document has an incorrect answer for question four; the top and bottom of the beam designations are reversed