Students build bridges in architectural unit of study

By using toothpicks and glue, Shades Cahaba Elementary students were able to design bridges that were able to hold up to 20 pounds.

Each year the fifth-graders at Shades Cahaba get to participate in an academic bridge building unit of study.  An architect from Davis Architects partners with each class to help the students in designing, drawing blueprints, and building the bridges.  In addition, Davis Architects provides all of the materials.  

In May, the bridges were judged on the most creative and strongest (holds the most weight before it breaks). Davis Architect gave a $100 donation to the most creative team’s charity of choice and a $200 donation to the strongest team’s charity. Team Building International won the weight competition by holding up 20 pounds, and their charity was the Firehouse Shelter.  Waffles Architecture won the most creative award, and their charity was Never Thirst.

Guest judges for the event were Mayor Scott McBrayer, Superintendent Bill Cleveland, Assistant Principal Wendy Story, and HCS Director of Instructional Support Patrick Chappell.