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

straws
paper clips
rubber bands
string

Safety First

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

Read and 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.

Step 2 — Do

Create a labeled diagram of what you built or observed.

Step 3 — Observe

Draw a picture of what you observe.

Step 4 — Record

Answer the questions based on your data.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is the first step of the engineering design process?