Teaching article
Two solutions should differ in how they work
Compare genuinely different approaches to the same requirement.
A folded easel and a slotted base offer different support mechanisms. Compare their likely strengths before construction; simply changing a colour scheme does not necessarily create another structural solution to the same brief.
A folded easel and slotted base solve support differently.
Compare mechanisms before selecting one
Compare how the alternatives work, not just how they look. Different mechanisms can reveal trade-offs before construction begins.
Sketch two mechanisms. Predict strengths. Choose one to prototype.
Two colour schemes are not necessarily two structural solutions. What differs in how they work?
Use mechanism picture prompts.
Resources
- Doughnut Shop Paper Stand STEM — Use the lightweight display-stand brief to test fit and stability.
Further reading
Read next
- Save the reason for a design choice before the test
- Folded or flat paper bridge? Keep the span unchanged
- A rough prototype can answer an important question
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