Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in this homeschool science and engineering series. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom environment (weather permitting). Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned with Next Generation Science and Florida State Standards. Classes are a combination of instruction and hands on activities that are designed to facilitate homeschool or virtual science education. Become a family member of Edison Ford and receive discounted registration!
2024 – 2025 Curriculum — Historical Engineering Marvels:
- **Historical Engineering Marvels “Ancient Egypt”**:
Students will explore the engineering feats of ancient Egypt, such as the pyramids and the Sphinx. One of the key activities is the **Step Pyramid/Toothpick Pyramid Challenge**, where students construct a pyramid using toothpicks and clay. This hands-on project teaches them about the importance of a strong base and triangular shapes in engineering, emphasizing trial and error as they learn from their design mistakes.
- **Historical Engineering Marvels “Colosseum in Rome”**:
Students will study the architectural design and engineering innovations behind the Colosseum. They will participate in the **Lego Aqueduct Challenge**, where they will build a model aqueduct using Lego bricks. This activity illustrates the significance of aqueducts in ancient Rome, showcasing engineering principles and the importance of water transportation in sustaining cities.
- **Historical Engineering Marvels “Great Wall of China”**:
Students will discover the engineering marvel that is the Great Wall of China. They will engage in the **Index Card Wall of China Challenge**, where they create a miniature version of the wall using index cards. This project helps students understand the construction techniques and cultural significance of the wall, as well as the concepts of strength and stability in structural design.
- **Modern Engineering Marvels “Eiffel Tower”**:
Students will delve into the design and construction of the Eiffel Tower. In the **Paper Clip Eiffel Tower Challenge**, they will use paper clips to build a model of the tower. This activity teaches students about structural integrity and the innovative design elements that make the Eiffel Tower an iconic landmark.
- **Modern Engineering Marvels “Burj Khalifa”**:
Students will explore the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The **Tower of Power** activity involves building the tallest freestanding structure possible using limited materials. This challenge emphasizes the principles of engineering design, stability, and the challenges faced in constructing skyscrapers.
- **Modern Engineering Marvels “Golden Gate Bridge”**:
Students will examine the engineering behind the Golden Gate Bridge. In the **Build a Lego Bridge** activity, they will construct a bridge using Lego pieces. This hands-on project teaches students about tension, compression, and the importance of design in creating efficient structures.
- **Transportation Engineering Marvels “Panama Canal”**:
Students will learn about the engineering and construction of the Panama Canal. The **Lego Maze Water Test Challenge** involves creating a maze that allows water to flow through it, simulating the locks of the canal. This activity helps students understand the engineering challenges of waterway construction and the importance of effective water management.
- **Transportation Engineering Marvels “Channel Tunnel”**:
Students will study the engineering behind the Channel Tunnel. They will engage in the **Balloon Cars** activity, where they design and build cars powered by balloon propulsion. This project teaches students about propulsion, aerodynamics, and the engineering principles involved in creating efficient transportation methods.
- **Transportation Engineering Marvels “Hoover Dam”**:
Students will explore the engineering of the Hoover Dam. In the **Model of the Hoover Dam** activity, they will build a scale model using various materials. This hands-on experience allows students to learn about the dam’s construction, its hydroelectric power generation, and its impact on water management and irrigation in the region.
