Fifth graders were assigned a hefty task: to design, plan, and construct a 3-D structure that could essentially withstand an earthquake! Working in pairs, students were asked to make their structure at least 2 levels high and 10 inches in height. On testing day, the structure had to hold the weight of a large rock. The students began by drawing rough sketches of their design; they used official blueprint paper for their final sketches. 

Phase 2 of the project entailed budgeting and building. Students had to stay within a $500,000 budget. They were given wax paper, representing a parcel of land, glue at $20,000 per cup, clamps and paintbrushes for a rental fee of $2,000 per day, and craft sticks at a cost of $10,000 for 25. Upon completion, the structures were put to the ultimate test: Could they withstand the simulation of an actual earthquake?