Which material seems to break most easily in tension? In compression? Make a survey of all the materials around you in the room. Can you find signs of wear and tear? Which parts look as though they are about to come apart, break, or fail in some way? Go on a "materials" scavenger hunt where you live. Can you find structures made out of the eight materials described in the materials lab? Why do you think each material was a good choice for that structure? What materials are used to build houses and apartment buildings where you live? Why do you think these materials were chosen? If you traveled to another location, do you think the buildings people live in would be made of different materials? Why or why not? Which materials would you choose to make 1) a bridge, 2) an office skyscraper, and 3) a dam wall? Give reasons for your choices.
