Activity

Design a Dome

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet
This Design a Dome activity also includes:

Do domed structures have advantages over their less-than-spherical counterparts? Junior architects explore the pros and cons of domes through a design challenge. Teams work together to plan, sketch, build, and test domes created from an array of easy-to-source materials.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • Show students an example of domed architecture with a video of one of Italy's most famous domes
  • Allow pupils to bring their own building materials, within reason
Classroom Considerations
  • Younger groups may need additional time to construct their domes so plan accordingly
  • Part of the challenge consists of revising domes that do not bear the 60-penny load; revisit the activity the following day if needed
Pros
  • The variety of building materials gives the class experience with an assortment of materials properties
  • Questions within the teacher's guide are helpful for introducing the challenge and assessing learning as it progresses
Cons
  • None
Common Core