Phase 4: Produce Prototype

Students will work in their small groups to produce a prototype for their design solution using suitable materials or digital tools.

Discussion Points and Design Evaluation


  • Test your designs and compare results. How did they compare? What did you observe?
  • What engineering design might assist your project?

Possible answers: Build it out of concrete, stone or bricks [heavier, stronger materials]; build it on stilts so it is above the water flow; make sure it has a deep footing into the soil; or shape it so that water flows around it.)

  • What might be some disadvantages of these designs?

(Possible answers: Buildings like this might cost more to construct, be more difficult to build, or be considered less attractive.)

  • How might you re-design your models to improve their chances of surviving rising sea levels ?
  • Re-Engineering: Ask the students how they might improve the buildings in their village. Have them sketch or test their concepts. What material would they use? How would they be shaped? What features would they have? Where would they be located?