Transportation Technology word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this transportation technology puzzle set for my Grade 3 and 4 students during our technology and society unit. The kids could name cars and planes but had no idea what words like engine, propeller, or navigation meant when we talked about how vehicles work. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like engine, propeller, brake, steering, suspension, navigation, hybrid, autonomous, thrust, drag, and lift. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the transportation technology vocabulary finally stick.

The download is three two-page PDFs: each puzzle comes with its answer page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether GPS uses satellites or just maps. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple car, plane, and satellite drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for Grades 3 through 5. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers name one transportation technology that helps people stay safe on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.