Bridge Building Competition – Middle School

What is the Bridge Building Competition?

Model bridges promote the study and application of physics and engineering and help students develop “hands-on” skills. Participating students get to experience what it is to be an engineer, designing structures to a set of specifications and then see them perform their function.

Teams of students construct bridges in advance of the competition — using only popsicle sticks, Elmer’s glue, tooth picks, and dental floss. Bridges are judged on aesthetics and originality of design, presentation, ultimate load carrying capacity, strength-to-weight ratio, and predicted failure point. Teams consist of 1-6 students.

The competition is designed for students/teachers interested in math, science, physics, research, and engineering (STEM areas). Teams receive awards for overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place as well as awards for aesthetics, presentations, bridge designs and team spirit. Check out our photos from previous year’s middle school and high school events!

Additional Resources:

• Bridge Building Competition Specifications
• Example of Bridge Design
• Photo Release Form
• Campus Map