Makers
Designing Solutions to Engineering Challenges for TK - 8 Learners
Students compete in a series of engineering challenges using design-thinking while exploring key concepts, planning and building their solutions, and putting their ideas to the test. Encouraging teamwork, creative problem-solving, and resourceful material handling, this program brings out the innovative Maker in every student.
Bigger constraints as their thinking grows
We tailor our Makers curriculum to be adaptable and meet students where they are developmentally — introducing the right engineering concepts, design-thinking framework, and functional vocabulary at each developmental stage. As students advance, challenges become more open-ended and require deeper planning, collaboration, iteration, and trade-off thinking. Below is an example of how design skills, engineering concepts, and challenge complexity progress across grade levels.
Tactile exploration, spatial reasoning, and play-based design & engineering techniques
Fine motor skills, counting, sorting, and differentiating parts, creative expression, pattern recognition, and collaborative play
Teamwork and collaboration, career exploration, reinforcement of science and math standards through real-world applications
Measurement and budgeting, simple mechanical principles, visual planning and communication, and material testing and reflection
Systems-level problem solving, career exploration, prototyping, testing, and iteration
Applied physics, cost-benefit decision-making, mechanical reasoning, design iteration, and public presentation
Explore Makers Challenges
Pick one to see the full objective, materials, and curriculum alignment
3D Animal Challenge
Design and build a 3D animal that stands or balances on its own
Shapes-to-Structures Challenge
Turn 2D shapes into strong, standing 3D structures
Marble Run Challenge
Build a pathway system to control speed, momentum, and direction
Landmark Challenge
Design and build a structure inspired by real-world landmarks and architectural features
Brick Drop Challenge
Design a protective frame that safeguards your egg from impact
Bridge Challenge
Build a bridge that spans a measured gap and supports weight
Cantilever Challenge
Build a structure with an overhang that supports weight
Earthquake Challenge
Build a structure that can withstand simulated earthquakes
Rubber Band Car Challenge
Construct a car powered by stored energy and controlled motion
Ready to Bring Makers to Your Program?
Whether you're a school, district, community organization, or family, we'll help you find the right fit.
Why It Works
What Kids Learn & the Impact We're Making
What Kids Learn
- Fundamental engineering and physics concepts
- The design-thinking framework
- Trade-off thinking and planning
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving
- Collaboration & Teamwork
Impact
- Increased student engagement in STEAM and design thinking
- Fosters collaboration, communication, and growth mindset
- Expands understanding of engineering principles, materials, and creative problem solving
I like that we worked in groups and got to know each other better, and it was fun to win!
4th Grade Makers ParticipantReady to Bring Makers to Your Program?
Whether you're a school, district, community organization, or family, we'll help you find the right fit.