How Was That Built: The Stories Behind Awesome Structures

How Was That Built

Ever wondered how the Eiffel Tower stands so tall or how the Great Wall of China snakes its way across mountains and valleys? Welcome to "How Was That Built: The Stories Behind Awesome Structures," where we dive into the fascinating tales and brilliant minds behind some of the world's most incredible constructions. This is your go-to guide for keeping curious minds—both young and old—engaged and inspired!

Let's start with the Eiffel Tower. Built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (that's the fancy French way of saying World's Fair), this iron lattice tower wasn't always the beloved Parisian icon it is today. Initially, many Parisians thought it was an eyesore! But thanks to Gustave Eiffel and his team, the tower not only stood tall but also became a symbol of innovation and engineering brilliance. Fun fact: it took over 18,000 individual iron parts and 2.5 million rivets to complete this masterpiece. Imagine the teamwork and precision that went into creating something so iconic!

Next up, the Great Wall of China, a marvel of ancient engineering stretching over 13,000 miles! Originally built to protect Chinese states from invasions, this wall isn't just one continuous line; it's a series of walls and fortifications built over centuries. The labour force included soldiers, peasants, and even prisoners. The wall weaves through rugged terrain and even incorporates natural barriers like rivers and mountains. It’s a testament to human determination and ingenuity, proving that when we work together, we can achieve the extraordinary.

So, next time your students or kids ask, "How was that built?" you’ll have some fun and engaging stories to share. These structures are more than just buildings; they are tales of creativity, hard work, and a dash of daring. Happy teaching, and may your lessons be as sturdy as the Great Wall and as inspiring as the Eiffel Tower!

Author: Roma Agrawal

Roma Agrawal is best known for her work on London’s iconic Shard skyscraper, but her talents extend far beyond this architectural marvel. In her book, "Built: The Hidden Stories Behind Our Structures," she explores the incredible feats of engineering that shape our world, from ancient aqueducts to modern skyscrapers.

Book Details:

  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Print length: 80 pages
  • Dimensions: 31.1 x 1.6 x 24.5 cm
  • Reading age: 8+ years old
  • Publication date: 16 Sept 2021
  • ISBN: 1526603659

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Can I use "How Was That Built" help teach my KS2 Building Bridges class?

Author: Roma Agrawal

Using "How Was That Built" by Roma Agrawal can be an effective resource for teaching a KS2 Building Bridges class. Here’s how it aligns with your curriculum:

Relevance to KS2 Curriculum

  • Understanding Structures: The book provides insights into various types of structures, including bridges, which is essential for students learning about engineering and design principles in the KS2 curriculum.
  • Real-World Examples: Agrawal's exploration of real-world bridges helps students connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enhancing their understanding of engineering concepts.

Integration with Activities

  • Complementary Activities: The book can be paired with hands-on activities such as bridge-building challenges. For instance, students can read about different bridge designs in the book and then apply that knowledge in practical projects, like constructing models using materials such as straws or popsicle sticks.
  • STEM Focus: Incorporating the book into STEM activities allows students to engage in the engineering design process, encouraging them to hypothesize, build, and test their bridge designs.

Engagement and Learning

  • Visual Learning: The illustrations and explanations in Agrawal's book can serve as visual aids that enhance comprehension, making complex engineering concepts more accessible to young learners.
  • Discussion Starter: The content can spark discussions about why certain designs are chosen for specific bridges, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.

In summary, "How Was That Built" by Roma Agrawal is a valuable tool that can effectively support your KS2 Building Bridges class by providing engaging content that complements hands-on learning activities.

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