Kindergarten students in Ms. Damin’s class, while in Project Lead the Way (PLTW) with Ms. Fisher, are learning to think like engineers through hands-on exploration and creative problem-solving. As part of their latest unit, students were challenged to design and build a house for one little pig –– one sturdy enough to withstand a visit from the “big, bad wolf.”
Before construction began, students explored the key concepts of function and structure as part of the Engineering Design Process. They learned that a house’s function is to provide a safe place to live, while its structure refers to how it is built and designed. During the “Explore” phase, students planned their blueprints carefully, discussing how to create a home that could best protect their pig.
The class then entered the “Model” phase, using various materials to bring plans to life. Once their houses are complete, the young engineers will move into the “Evaluation” stage, testing whether their structures can keep the pig safe during the wolf’s visit.
Finally, students will enter the “Explain” phase, reflecting on their results and discussing ways to improve their designs. This process helps them understand that engineering is not just about building –– it's about problem-solving, testing ideas, and learning from every challenge.
Through this playful, hands-on lesson, students are developing critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity –– key components of Irvington’s commitment to fostering innovation and curiosity from the earliest grades.
