Lesson Idea | Building a Storm Drain

Building a Storm Drain is an engineering and earth science design challenge for ages 7–13 where students create a storm drain cover that blocks litter while allowing water to flow through. In this 45–60 minute hands-on activity, learners explore how human actions affect watersheds and pollution while practicing creativity, problem-solving, and iteration. By designing and testing their own solutions, students see how small engineering innovations can help protect waterways and the planet.