Author:
William Allred, Carrie Robledo
Subject:
Science
Material Type:
Activity/Lab
Level:
Upper Primary
Grade:
5
Tags:
35-AP-11, 35-ap-11, K-5 Design Thinking, K-5 Engineering, k-5-design-thinking, k-5-engineering, k5engineers
License:
Creative Commons Attribution
Language:
English

Education Standards

5th Grade: Predator Challenge

5th Grade:  Predator Challenge

Overview

Each team has a budget of $45 to spend to modify a cup into the ultimate predator.  After predators are constructed, students battle to pop each others’ balloons.  Whichever predator is able to survive is the apex predator.

Instructor Directions

Engineering Design Process

Fifth Grade:  Predator Challenge

Driving Question / ScenarioCan you create the ultimate apex predator?
Project SummaryEach team has a budget of $45 to spend to modify a cup into the ultimate predator.  After predators are constructed, students battle to pop each others’ balloons.  Whichever predator is able to survive is the apex predator.
Estimated Time2-3 Class periods 1 - introduce challenge and plan, 2 - build and test, 3 - battle
Materials / ResourcesToothpicksCupsSphero RobotsBamboo SkewersTacksPopsicle SticksCorkTapeWater Balloons Hot Glue (optional)
Standards5.L.2.3:  Infer the effects that may result from the interconnected relationship of plants and animals to their ecosystem.1. What types of relationships exist between organisms within an environment?2. Explain various interconnectedrelationships within ecosystems (i.e., predator/prey, host/parasite).5.E.2.1:  Explain the importance of developing a basic budget for spending and saving.5.E.2.2:  Evaluate the costs and benefits of spending, borrowing, and saving.
Project Outline
AskHow can I build a predator that will defeat the other predators?
ImagineWhat does a predator look like?
PlanDraw a model, use your budget sheet, & gather materials
CreateDraw a model, use your budget sheet, & gather materialsBuild and Test your predator
ImproveWas it successful? How can you make it better?
Closure / Student ReflectionsStudents share their creations and as well as successes and failures throughout the time period.  
Possible Modifications / ExtensionsMake modifications and battle a second time.  If you only have 2 spheros, do a bracket style tournament.  

 


 

Sample Pictures / Video

 

Creative Commons