Building Toothpick Bridges

by Jeanne Pollard

The many real-world features of this intriguing project underline the importance of math in life and give students practice in math and social skills. A company of 5 or 6 students has a budget to build a bridge. The architect and manager order materials from the warehouse (the teacher), while the accountant writes checks and keeps the books. Students complete the project by building miniature bridges that beat the budget and bear a required load. All phases are clearly described.