Engineering Design Process word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Engineering Design Process word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this engineering design process puzzle set for my 4th graders during our STEM unit. The kids could build things but had no idea what words like design, test, or improve meant when we talked about the steps engineers follow. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like design, plan, build, test, improve, problem, solution, prototype, materials, and teamwork. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the engineering vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether testing a prototype is the most important step. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple gear, blueprint, and question mark drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write the engineering design steps in order on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.