Grade 2: Knee-Deep in Design
In science with Mrs. Sarah Jackson, Grade 2 students recently took on an engineering design challenge to create a knee brace.
As part of their study of the skeletal system, students learned about the structure and function of the knee joint and how injuries can affect movement. Using goniometers, they compared the range of motion in their own healthy knees to a model injured knee with a torn MCL, helping them better understand the problem they were working to solve.
Students then explored when and why someone might need a knee brace and identified the key features of an effective design. They considered how a brace should support the injured area while still allowing movement, be easy to put on and remove, and remain durable during use.
Working with partners, students brainstormed ideas and created design plans before building their knee braces using a variety of materials. After testing their designs on the model knee, students evaluated their effectiveness and made plans for improvement.
The unit also included a visit from a Grade 2 parent who is an orthopedic surgeon, providing real-world insight into how knee injuries are treated and supported.
Through the project, students connected their understanding of the human body to engineering and problem-solving, designing solutions that balanced support, movement, and usability.
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
