Wider Curriculum Y3 Spring 1
What Impact Has Engineering Had on the Lives of Humans?
Big Question:
How have engineers found solutions to geographical challenges?
Overview
This term, Year 3 will explore bridges and waterways, learning how engineers overcome geographical challenges. Children will study rivers, their impact on land, and the history of canals. They will design and build a model bridge that spans a gap and holds a load.
What Will Children Learn?
- Geography:
- Key features of rivers and their impact on land.
- Differences between natural and manmade waterways.
- History:
- How canals shaped industry and daily life.
- Design & Technology:
- Design and construct a strong, stable bridge.
- Apply engineering principles to meet design criteria.
Key Experiences
✅ Fieldwork at a local waterway
✅ Researching famous bridges and engineers
✅ Designing and building a bridge prototype
Why This Matters
This project develops problem-solving and engineering skills while connecting learning to local geography and history.
How You Can Support at Home
- Look at bridges in your local area and discuss their design.
- Explore maps and locate rivers and canals.
- Talk about why bridges are important for transport and trade.
The Final Outcome
By the end of the term, children will:
- Understand the role of engineering in solving geographical challenges.
- Design and build a bridge that meets specific criteria.
- Evaluate their design using scientific enquiry.
