This product fit beautifully into an Engineering STEM unit we already teach. I used it with my 1st grade GT group, and students worked through the first three bridge challenges with great struggle, brainstorming, and success. They absolutely loved the hands-on experience and were fully engaged the entire time—they didn’t want to stop solving the puzzles!
What I appreciate most is how authentically this builds problem-solving skills. Students had to think, test, fail, adjust, and try again—exactly what we want in STEM and GT learning. The graphic novel component that goes along with the challenges is very appealing and adds an extra layer of interest and motivation.
A few small notes: my left-handed student would have benefited from the truck having a wind-up key on both sides, making it easier to hold and test independently. Also, a few of the small plastic clips snapped when I had to remove and reposition them (they had been placed backwards), so I was glad I had purchased extra pieces. Some of the cardboard tower pieces bent slightly when attaching the connectors, as they are a tight fit—I’m hoping this won’t impact the more complex builds later on.
Those are minor concerns compared to the overall experience. This is a fabulous product that fits perfectly into STEM and GT classrooms. Students are engaged, thinking deeply, and excited to keep going.
I would absolutely recommend it!
