In our MYP Grade 8 Design class, students are tackling an exciting real-world challenge: designing and building a water tank that uses minimal materials to hold 200 mL of water for three minutes. Acting as trainee engineers, they must plan, sketch, build, and test their prototypes using only newspaper, popsicle sticks, and masking tape—with a strict mass limit of 18 grams. The focus of the unit is on efficient development, pushing students to think critically about structure, resource use, and testing strategies. Many students have already moved into the testing phase, collecting data to refine their designs and improve performance. This project not only strengthens their design thinking but also encourages creativity within limitations. Success is measured by how efficiently the tank holds water, with higher scores going to lighter yet stronger structures. Through this hands-on experience, students are learning the value of planning, problem-solving, and thoughtful improvement.
Mr. Marek
