Industrial Design Technologies
Year 10 Engineering: Truss Testing in Action!
This term, our Year 10 Engineering students have been putting their design and problem-solving skills to the test as they explored structural engineering through truss construction. After learning the key principles behind truss bridges—including tension, compression, load distribution, and material efficiency—students were challenged to design and build their own model trusses using balsa wood and masking tape.
The project culminated in an exciting load testing session, where each team’s truss was subjected to increasing weight until it eventually failed. Students carefully recorded the maximum load their structure could support, analysed where and why it broke. The atmosphere was electric as each group watched their models undergo the ultimate stress test.
Through this hands-on activity, students developed a deeper understanding of engineering concepts like force transfer, triangulation, and failure points. They also demonstrated fantastic teamwork, creativity, and resilience in refining their designs and learning from the testing process.
Congratulations to all students for their impressive efforts—and a special shout-out to the team whose truss held almost 30 kilograms before giving way! Over 10 thousand times the design’s weight!
Head of Department - Design Technologies - Year 8F to 8J