Inspired by kids and grounded in research, Novel Engineering is an innovative approach to integrate engineering and literacy in elementary and middle school.
Students use existing classroom literature – stories, novels, and expository texts – as the basis for engineering design challenges that help them identify problems, design realistic solutions, and engage in the Engineering Design Process while reinforcing their literacy skills.
Why you should do NE
Works within ELA curriculum
Enhances reading comprehension
Engages all learners
Provides integration of different disciplines
Introduces realistic engineering problems
Builds 21st century skills
Meets common core and next generation science standards
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What does NE look like?
Read a book and identify problems Through discussion and attentive reading, students collect problems that characters face.
Scope problems and brainstorm solutions Students consider the needs of the story’s character/client and the context/constraints imposed by the text as they brainstorm possible solutions.
Design a solution Students work in teams to plan and build a functional prototype that addresses the character’s needs and constraints.