Bridging Knowledge and Creativity: 5th Graders Take on LEGO Bridge-Building Challenge!

At St. Bernard School, we believe hands-on experiences deepen understanding and make learning come alive. Recently, our 5th-grade students demonstrated this by using their STEM skills to build bridges from LEGOs, putting both their creativity and knowledge of architecture to the test. This exciting project not only challenged their problem-solving skills but also brought their study of bridge types and architecture into tangible form.

For weeks, the 5th graders dove into the world of architecture, learning about the engineering behind different bridge structures and understanding how bridges are designed to withstand weight and resist environmental forces. They studied various bridge styles, including beam, arch, truss, and suspension bridges. Each bridge type has unique structural advantages and challenges, which the students explored through class discussions, diagrams, and real-world examples.

To put their newfound knowledge into action, each student was paired up with a partner and assigned a different bridge style to recreate using LEGOs. They were challenged to make their bridges not only structurally sound but also aesthetically pleasing, as real-life architects must do. The LEGO materials required the students to carefully consider the size, balance, and weight distribution of each piece, reinforcing the engineering principles they had studied.

Each pair used trial and error to determine the best way to create a stable bridge, discovering the importance of balance, support, and teamwork. Some students experimented with arches to support their bridge spans, while others constructed sturdy beams and towers to form the base of a truss bridge. By working together, the students strengthened their understanding of collaboration and resilience, learning that engineering is as much about problem-solving and adaptability as it is about design.

After hours of planning and building, each pair of students presented their completed LEGO bridges to the class, explaining the design choices they made and the specific techniques they used to ensure stability. They also discussed the challenges they faced during the building process and how they worked together to overcome them. The variety of bridge styles showcased their understanding of the structural benefits and limitations of each type, and every team’s unique approach reflected their creativity and resourcefulness.

As they presented their work, it was clear that this LEGO bridge-building project had not only taught them about STEM and architecture but also fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment. By building something together from the ground up, the 5th graders gained a new appreciation for the role of architects and engineers in shaping the world around us.

At St. Bernard School, we’re committed to providing opportunities for our students to think critically, work collaboratively, and build their confidence in STEM. We’re thrilled to see where their curiosity and creativity will lead them next!


St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.