Geodesic Dome Challenge
KS2 and 3 Maths and Building Activity
What year group(s) is it suitable for? Key Stage 2,3 and 4
How many students can take part? Up to 60 students
How long does the workshop last? This is a morning-long workshop running between the start of the day and the school's lunchtime.
How much space do we need? Use of the school hall or a similar space is required for a full group. In warmer months and weather permitting part of the activity can be run outside.
Any other requirements? Access to display equipment for presentation
.jpg)
.jpg)
The workshop covers the origins of the geodesic dome, polyhedrons and geometric solids, their structural qualities, testing and evaluating the strength of structures and shapes
Students work in small groups to builds a scale model, then create larger teams to work together to build a large dome. Up to four large domes can be built by teams of up to fifteen students.
This activity develops teamwork, design, practical dexterity, communication and decision making skills, and gives maths context in a real world application. The maths element will be tailored to suit the age and ability of the students involved.
At the end of the morning, four individuals are selected by their peers or teachers as 'VIP's who were instrumental in their team's success. These individuals each receive a small prize.
What teachers and students are saying:
"On the day, Sam was brilliant, he adapted for our school timings and got the students very engaged with the content. It was refreshing to see him allow the students to make mistakes which he allowed the students to realise which really helped them think deeply about how they were reading the instructions and how to work together more effectively to complete the activity."
"We structured this as 'what went well' and here are some of the responses: - we got to build skills, teamwork - I won chocolate - made friendships - it was fun - really fun as we were doing building work - I didn't realise how much fun engineering was - most fun I have had in school in ages - very challenging but when we were finished it at the end it was a relief and I was very proud of myself - we finished the dome even though it was really hard - we worked together as a good team - it was really good fun, the teachers were kind and listened to the students - we learnt new skills and had fun while doing it - good teamwork skills and communication"
"Super delivery from your team. Very informative and engaging. The children loved it and spoke about it for a considerable time after."
"Loved it. We never get to build massive stuff like this."
"A very engaging session with plenty of practical activity along with expert guidance."
"It was awesome. I mostly learned about how everything has a plan and you have to follow the instructions."
"Facilitator was very enthusiastic and the teachers all gave positive feedback about the event"
"Fantastic morning - well organised and run, kids loved it."
"I like the history bit where we learnt about the geodesic design and where we can find them all over the place."
""I loved it, even though we didn't get it right first time and some people got angry, we did it in the end!""
"Best morning ever! I found something I am good at."