In this design challenge, students will receive the task of improving an existing toy design called a Wigglebot. The Wigglebot can wiggle through the use of a DC motor, a machine that transforms electric energy into mechanical energy in the form of rotation. Students will learn about electricity and circuitry before taking on the challenge of adding more features to this toy. The students will be presented with the following problem: “Maria’s company currently sells Wigglebots, but has gotten feedback from her market research that they need to do more than just wiggle. She is looking to improve the design of this toy to include more features while keeping its’ same look.” Students will put on their engineering hats to help Maria improve the design of her toy. Students will engage in a STEM challenge to design a Wigglebot that can produce light and sound while still being able to wiggle.

Standards Alignment + Connections

Current Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills

Current Science TEKS covered in this design challenge

Grade 4 TEKS: 4.6.A, 4.6.B, 4.6.C
Grade 5 TEKS: 5.6.A, 5.6.B
Grade 6 TEKS: 6.9.C

Math TEKS covered in this design challenge

Grade 4 TEKS: 4.8.C
Grade 5 TEKS: 5.10.F
Grade 6 TEKS: 6.3.D

Technology Applications TEKS covered in this design challenge

Grade 4 TEKS: 4.3.A, 4.3.B
Grade 5 TEKS: 5.3.A, 5.3.B
Grade 6 TEKS: 6.1.C, 6.4.B, 6.4.C

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills to be Implemented in 2024-2025

2021 Science TEKS covered in this design challenge

Grade 4 TEKS: 4.1.B, 4.1.E, 4.1.G, 4.2.D, 4.8.B, 4.8.C
Grade 5 TEKS: 5.1.B, 5.1.E, 5.1.G, 5.2.D, 5.8.A, 5.8.B