Build bridges with basic structual series of different shapes to see how stable they are. Build cranes with basic structural units of different shapes to see how stable they are. Rods and hubs can be assembled to make different shapes.
Triangles are stronger than squares because forces applied by a load are equally distributed.
Triangles can be combined to make trusses that are used in a variety of structures like bridges, cranes and roofs. Toys such as Erector Sets, as well as housefold items such as straws, toothpicks and popsicle sticks can be used to experiment with different structures. Science in Toyland was created by the California Museum of Science and Industry , with support from members of the Science Museum Exhibit Collaborative . All rights reserved. All media are for the personal use of students, scholars and the public.