Math Madness

Step 1:

Complete this WebQuest. You do not need to fill in the answers on the site, but you do need to write them on your sheet.

Please pay close attention to the forces which act on bridges. You will be expected to know what kind of forces are acting on your bridge when the weight is loaded!

Step 2:

If you have extra time, you and your partner should do some research into toothpick bridge building. If you see some designs you like, sketch them or make a note on your paper so you can return to the site. Keep in mind that your goal is to develop a design for your bridge, so focus your research on practical construction tips.

Here are some sites to get you started:

1. Discovery Science Center – Toothpick Bridge Building Guidelines
2. Japanese Aviation Technical College Contest – this site has lots of good designs.
3. Pi Symphony - This site explores some arch designs and has some great construction tips.
4. Worsley School – Lots of great bridge information plus construction tips.
5. A Gallery of Truss Bridges - This contains pictures of many real bridges. This may give you ideas for your design.
6. Seton School Physics Contest - This site has some great designs.
7. Toothpick Bridge Flickr - This is a collection of bridge pictures.

If you find any other particularly good websites, please write them down and give them to Ms. Wilkerson.