Engineering design process for middle school

What are the steps of the engineering design process? 

If you’re teaching a STEM class, the engineering design process will be one of the most important parts of your curriculum. But what exactly is it? And what are the steps of the engineering design process?

Let’s dive into what it is and how you can effectively teach it to your students!

What is the Engineering Design Process?

The engineering design process is a problem-solving strategy used in STEM-based education and in real-world engineering. While you might find different versions if you search online, they all share the same core principles and flow of actions.

I’ve developed a version that’s perfect for middle school students (and you can grab a FREE copy of my poster by clicking on the picture below!).

This image shows a poster titled "The engineering design process." There are 6 steps listed next to a bidirectional arrow. One copy is in grayscale and second copy is shown in blue and black.

The 6 Steps of the Engineering Design Process

Let’s explore these essential engineering process steps in detail:

1. Define the Problem

First, engineers discover the problem and they identify the project criteria and constraints. This step may include completing a design brief.

2. Generate Concepts

Next, engineers conduct background research to learn more about the problem and possible solutions.

Then, they brainstorm how they will solve the problem and select the best idea to develop by comparing their brainstormed solutions to the project requirements. This step may include completing a decision matrix.

3. Develop a Solution

Next, engineers create a detailed sketch of the chosen solution and identify the materials needed to bring it to life.

4. Construct and Test Prototype

Next, a testable model of the chosen solution is built. During this hands-on phase, they make careful observations and collect data throughout the testing process.

5. Evaluate Solution

Then, the data will be analyzed, and the effectiveness of the solution will be determined. Does it solve the problem? Were the criteria and constraints met? This step often includes creating graphs to better understand the results.

6. Present the Solution

Finally, the project must be documented, and the product and process must be communicated to clients and others. This step may include a project portfolio or formal presentation.

Want to learn more about STEM-based education? Check out this article about structuring a STEM class.

Important Notes About the Design Process

Remember, the 6 steps in the design process aren’t set in stone! Here’s what you need to know:

  • It’s iterative – engineers often repeat steps to improve their solutions
  • It’s flexible – sometimes steps might happen in a different order
  • It’s practical – different problems might need different approaches

For example, if an engineer begins building their solution and discovers it isn’t possible with the given materials, they may return to “generate concepts” to do more research and brainstorming.

Or if they evaluate their solution and find a specific flaw in their prototype, they could return to “construct and test” to fix the problem, retest, and evaluate.

Ready to Teach the Engineering Design Process?

Teaching the 6 steps of the engineering design process should be engaging and effective, and I’ve created a comprehensive solution to help you do just that.

My complete middle school engineering unit takes all the guesswork out of teaching these concepts. It includes engaging STEM challenges like building wind-powered cars, ready-to-use lesson plans, interactive activities, and practical assessments.

Everything comes in printable, Google, and Easel versions, making it perfect for traditional classroom teaching, virtual learning days, emergency sub plans, or extension activities.

Ready to transform how you teach the engineering design process? Click here to get your hands on these classroom-tested resources!

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