Immerse students in meteorology and engineering as they explore how hurricanes form and the powerful effects they have on communities. In this challenge, learners study wind speed, rainfall, and storm surge, then design and build a house that can withstand simulated hurricane conditions. Students test their structures against wind, water, and standing water, analyzing how their designs protect against damage and refining them for greater strength. Realistic hurricane simulations make this an unforgettable, high-engagement lesson where science, engineering, and creativity come together in action-packed learning.
1
Introduce the challenge
2
Design & build
3
Test it
4
Improve & share
At a glance
Grades
3rd Grade, 4th Grade, 5th Grade
Subject
Engineering
Theme
Weather and Natural Disasters
Formats
Digital Lesson, Mini Lesson
Standards
NGSS-aligned, cross-curricular STEAM
File type
PDF (print or project)
Student work examples
Student workReal student work from Hurricane HousesWhat’s includedA quick tour of the full Digital LessonWhat’s includedShows the full Digital Lesson. The Mini Lesson has the same core pages, shorter.
