Bridge-building using toothpicks, soda straws and other materials is a very popular activity for students. There are many Web sites, books and other resources that can give you ideas on making your own bridge.
General encyclopedias have information on bridge construction and design styles.
Ask the librarian to help you locate these. Books on bridge construction can be found in the card catalog in your library or online. If your library does not have the titles, ask the librarian if it is possible to get them through interlibrary loan. How Bridges are Made , by Jeremy Kingston Messing Around with Drinking Straw Construction - A Boston Children's Museum Activity Book by Bernie Zubrowski. Click on each of the pictures to see and read about all the steps they took to complete their projects.