The Engineering Design Process

What You'll Learn

Engineers use the design process to solve problems: identify the problem, research, brainstorm solutions, build a prototype, test it, evaluate results, and improve the design.

Key Words

experiment
data
observation

Materials Needed

paper clips
rubber bands
string

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.
Do not look directly at the sun or bright lights.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.

Step 2 — Do

Create a solar oven from a pizza box lined with foil. Measure the temperature inside on a sunny day. Try melting chocolate or cheese.

Step 3 — Observe

Draw a detailed diagram of what you observe.

Step 4 — Record

Write a conclusion: what did your results show? Did they match your prediction?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is the first step of the engineering design process?