Fifth Graders Ignite Innovation and Master Engineering Principles in Biannual Fall Cardboard Canoe Race
October 10, 2025
The school’s central quarry became an open-air laboratory this fall as fifth-grade students from the Middle School Design and Modeling course put their theoretical knowledge to the ultimate practical test: launching a boat built entirely of cardboard and duct tape. More than a lively race, this annual challenge is the students’ introduction to the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering curriculum, seamlessly blending rigorous academics with hands-on, high-stakes fun and collaborative problem-solving.
The cardboard canoe challenge is the student favorite project that introduces the complete engineering design process,” said Tanya Snook, Middle School Design Lab Teacher and Coordinator. “That means: define the problem, generate concepts, develop a solution, construct and test prototypes, evaluate the solution, and present the final outcome.”
As a PLTW school, the curriculum provides students with a pathway to connect classroom concepts to real-world applications. This undertaking is far more than a recreational exercise; it is an authentic iteration of the engineering design cycle, requiring students to master concepts of buoyancy, structural integrity, and applied physics. As an exemplary cross-divisional effort, the program coordinates closely with the Outdoor Education department, which provides fundamental canoe instruction, equipping students with the necessary environmental context before they begin construction. The design phase demands acute problem-solving, forcing students to consider hydrodynamic principles and material limitations—specifically, one roll of duct tape per student and the constraint of cardboard. Challenging the students academically transforms abstract physics concepts into a tangible, tested reality.
The energy surrounding the project is, as Ms. Snook puts it, “electric.” Students move quickly from initial incredulity—can we really build a boat out of cardboard?—to an overwhelming enthusiasm that leads them to voluntarily dedicate their free time to perfecting their designs.
“They often want to come before school, at IGLT, and after school to work,” Snook shared. “They get so excited about their designs and work so hard. Most times they will say how they have reworked their sketches and tried new things—some even make miniature prototypes at home!”
Beyond the academic rigor, the project often yields profound personal growth. Ms. Snook’s favorite moments are seeing her students’ pure excitement to learn and witnessing them conquer personal barriers. “My other favorite thing is seeing my kids who are afraid of the water actually get in the water,” she said. “They are so proud once they have conquered their fear!”
The success of this engaging, hands-on STEM experience is a testament to the comprehensive support of the entire ESD community. From the Facilities team expertly managing the supply and disposal of materials to faculty and lower school students demonstrating interest in the designs by cheering from the perimeter, to Mr. Snook and Coach Henderon assisting with the crucial launch phase, the event is a testament to the school’s collaborative spirit.
“It is so exciting for the kids to see the classes outside cheering them on,” Snook added, offering her thanks to the whole community. “I couldn’t do this in isolation, and I appreciate everyone so much.” The biannual event not only cements essential STEM principles but also underscores our school’s commitment to providing transformative, project-based learning that prepares students for future endeavors.
