Science·Scientific Inquiry·procedural
Simple Design Problems
Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost
Suggested ages 8–11
Learning journey
Your child is learning to think like an engineer — designing solutions to problems, planning fair tests, and improving their ideas based on what works best.
Evidence of understanding
- Define a design problem by describing the need or want it addresses
- Specify at least two criteria for a successful solution (e.g. must hold X weight, must cost less than Y)
- Identify constraints such as available materials, time limits, or cost
Assessment prompt
Can Simple Design Problems clearly state what problem they're trying to solve with a design, what would make it successful, and what limits they have on materials or time?
Standards alignment
3-5-ETS1-1US · ngss-k5
3-5-ETS1-1
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) K-5