The class began with students experimenting with legos to build different structures. They used a computer applet to find which structures would be stable. Then they used the legos to see if the applet was correct. They were to explain the different advantages or disadvantages of using this computer program. After this, the class had to explain the concept of balance and beams. This led to a discussion of center of mass and things toppling over.
After break, the class discussed the cross section applet, which included cross beams and different dimensions. From there, the kids had to design different beams. To start this, they first had to fill in a chart. Cindy Goodson, the teacher, had to test these beams. To do this, she used bricks to add weight to the beams that were made out of foam. As Cindy was testing all of the beams, the students were to write down all of the results in the chart that they were given. The class discussed the importance of designing a beam in the real world.