Engineering Design Process Part 1: Define the Problem

Introduce students to the first step of the engineering design process with this helpful template! Designed for middle school learners, this worksheet will support students as they explore the important first step of the design process: defining the problem. Young engineers will be introduced to key vocabulary words like criteria and constraint. Then they will use the graphic organizer to help them define a problem for which they can use the engineering design process to design a solution. As they complete the graphic organizer, students will be guided to describe the problem and identify criteria, constraints, and other considerations. Then be sure to check out the next step of the design process: Engineering Design Part 2: Brainstorm Solutions.

Here are a few examples of engineering design problems to get students' wheels turning:

• Design an aluminum foil boat that can withstand turbulent waters.
• Design a cup that will keep beverages colder for longer than a regular cup.
• Design an earthquake-resistant house.
• Design a delayed-release tablet.