Lesson 1: What Is Engineering?
Engineers solve problems by designing and building things. Every toy, building, bridge, and phone was designed by an engineer. Engineers ask: What is the problem? What could solve it? Let's build it!
Key Concepts
The Design Process
Engineers follow steps: Ask (what is the problem?), Research (what do we know?), Imagine (what are some solutions?), Plan (pick the best idea), Create (build it!), Improve (make it better). This cycle never ends!
Engineers Use Materials
Engineers choose materials carefully. Wood is strong but heavy. Paper is light but weak. Metal is very strong. Plastic can be shaped easily. The right material for the job makes all the difference.
Failure Is Learning
When something does not work, that is not failure — that is information! Engineers learn from every attempt. Thomas Edison tried over 1,000 designs before inventing the light bulb.
🆕 Design Challenge Simulator
You need to build a bridge! Click materials to add them and see how strong your bridge is.
✅ Check Your Understanding
1. What do engineers do?
2. What is the first step in the design process?
3. Why is failure useful in engineering?