Free sample focus: Build a wobbly pencil holder, test it, then redesign with evidence like a real young engineer.
Showcase sample
Build a wobbly pencil holder, test it, then redesign with evidence like a real young engineer.
A good engineering solution matches the problem, criteria, and evidence from tests.
📋 NGSS Alignment: K-2-ETS1-1 / K-2-ETS1-3 — Ask questions, define a simple problem, and compare possible solutions.
🎯 Learning Objective
Students will define a desk problem, build a quick pencil holder model, test it against criteria, and improve the design.
💡 The Big Idea
A good engineering solution matches the problem, criteria, and evidence from tests.
Criteria-led redesign
The design board helps students see that “better” means meeting criteria: holds pencils, stands up, and improves after testing.
Name the criteria
Test the first design
Redesign using evidence
🔬 Key Vocabulary
problemcriteriasolutionmodeltestredesign
📦 Materials
Index cards or scrap paper
Tape
3 pencils or crayons
Small cup optional
Ruler optional
Worksheet
🧪 Investigation
Step 1 — Define the problem Pencils keep rolling away from the work area.
Step 2 — Set criteria The holder should keep three pencils in place and stand on its own.
Step 3 — Build version 1 Fold/tape paper or use a cup idea to make a holder.
Step 4 — Test Place three pencils and gently bump the table.
Step 5 — Improve Change the base, height, or shape.
Step 6 — Compare solutions Student names which version worked better and why.
💬 Discussion Questions
What is the problem?Use evidence from the activity in your answer.
What criteria did the holder need to meet?Use evidence from the activity in your answer.
What evidence showed version 2 was better?Use evidence from the activity in your answer.
🚀 Extension
Try this next: Ask your child to repeat one part of the test tomorrow or with one changed material, then explain what stayed the same and what changed.
👩🏫 Parent/Teacher Notes
At-home win: This free sample is complete enough to teach today and polished enough to show how a full Little Lab Coats lesson feels.
Evidence move: Press students to point to a mark, drawing, comparison, or observation before they explain.
Family-friendly pacing: If attention is short, do steps 1–4 today and the worksheet discussion later.
