In this hands-on lesson, students design and build a structure that can break wave energy before it hits land. They collaborate through the engineering design process, figure out that there are many possible ways to solve the problem, and reflect on the role that oysters play as natural breakwaters.

Students collaborate through the engineering design process to design and build a structure that can break wave energy before it reaches land. They figure out that there are many possible ways to solve the problem, then reflect on the role oysters play as natural breakwaters.
Pacing: 2 class periods (~90 min).
Logistics: Make a copy of the lesson plan, slides, and handouts. Print enough handouts for each student. Set up wave tank stations with weights, cardboard, and trays before class.
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