Comparing Possible Solutions
Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints
Lesson
Set out your lesson
“Several ideas may meet a need. Compare each with the same criteria and constraints. Likely means a prediction, not a measured result. If evidence is missing, uncertain is a better rating than an invented pass. Safety: Paper planning only; no actual cutting or fastening tools. Stop: End with one selected proposal. Do not silently turn predicted ratings into test results.”
Bring to the table
- Paper, pencil and ruler
- One reused sheet available to inspect; no construction required
Extra for the adult
Worked example. Illustrative comparison: a channel has raised sides and a planned 12 cm by 8 cm base; a sleeve may need fastening to stay closed. Answer: the channel is promising because its sides may block rolling and its planned footprint fits. Its actual performance remains untested.
Optional challenge. Revise an idea that fails a constraint while preserving its useful feature.
What to notice. Keep all sketches and the comparison table. Note supplied seed use and adult suggestions.
Share and support
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
Extra practice links — they do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
US EPA · Practice link — not the full lesson
Students
Before you open · source notes
Students supports Comparing Possible Solutions. An adult previews and guides; this is a learning page, not a scored quiz.
Free educational page, no sign-in required for the tested path.
Before you openAsk the learner one fact they learned and one question they still have.
Opening this link does not save learning or assess mastery.
Source, access and review notes
Public US EPA page. An anonymous GET on 2026-11-12 returned HTTP 200 with no login or payment prompt for this URL. Opening the link does not save practice or assess mastery. An adult should preview and guide the learner.
US EPA. “Students.” External page; Gakuva does not copy, host, embed, or redistribute materials.
Unknown — link only
Check understanding
- Generate at least three possible solutions to a defined design problem
- Compare solutions against the specified criteria and constraints
- Select the most promising solution with reasoning for the choice
“Can your child brainstorm several different solutions to a design challenge and then compare them to decide which one best meets the requirements?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Procedural
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Scientific Inquiry
- Age range
- Ages 8–12
Standards