Activity 3 · Engineering
One-Message Cup Challenge
Materials Matching cup sets and a barrier.
Materials decision Runs with common classroom manipulatives; no custom printable is required.
What to describe
The Describer studies the model and may give only one uninterrupted set of directions. The Builder cannot ask questions until the description is complete.
Roles
How a round works
Make it harder or easier
Harder
Go one-way — ban questions — and add a 30-word limit; require measured lengths and units.
Easier
Allow yes/no questions, agree on a shared base piece, and let the Builder peek once before the barrier goes up.
Reflect
Skills
Standards & alignment
TEKS 2021 Science TEKS · Strand 1: Scientific & Engineering Practices — engineering design & communicating information (confirm grade code)
NGSS NGSS SEP-8: Obtaining, Evaluating & Communicating Information · SEP-6: Constructing Explanations & Designing Solutions (ETS1)