Engineering Design Process — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A constraint is a limit on a design, like time or materials.
Grade 3 NGSS 3-5-ETS1: constraints are limits engineers must respect.
2. The rules for success in a design are called the criteria.
Grade 3 science: criteria describe what a good solution must do.
3. If a bridge must hold 10 blocks, that rule is a criterion.
Grade 3 vocabulary: one success rule is called a criterion.
4. Using only 20 straws is a material constraint for the design.
Grade 3 NGSS 3-5-ETS1: material limits are common design constraints.
5. Engineers draw a sketch of the design before building.
Grade 3 design: sketches help engineers plan and share ideas.
6. A working test model of a design is called a prototype.
Grade 3 vocabulary: prototypes help engineers test ideas.
7. Grade 3 scientists test their prototype to see if it works.
Grade 3 NGSS 3-5-ETS1: testing shows how well a design meets criteria.
8. If the design fails, engineers improve it and try again.
Grade 3 science: engineers keep improving after each test.
9. Repeating the design cycle to make a better design is called iteration.
Grade 3 NGSS 3-5-ETS1: iteration is key to good engineering.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Ask step
→ Write down what the problem is
Draw a sketch of the design
Plan step
→ Draw a sketch of the design
Change the design after testing
Create step
→ Build the prototype
Build the prototype
Improve step
→ Change the design after testing
Write down what the problem is
Grade 3 NGSS 3-5-ETS1: each step has a clear job in the design cycle.