Structures and Forces

What the resources cover

This page is about structures and the forces that act on them. The mind maps start with simple ideas: a structure is an object with a definite shape and a purpose, a force is a push or pull, and the weight a structure carries is its load. Several maps split structures into frame, shell and solid types, and into natural and man-made ones.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map called structures and forces. It sets out form, function, forces and types of structures in one view. Next, read the note created from that map, which adds ideas such as designing for safety and for the forces on a bridge. Then try the mind map Topic 1&2, which links structures, forces, stresses and loads.

Using quizzes, maps and flashcards together

There are only a few quizzes here, so use them wisely. Read two or three maps first, then take Structures - Test, which asks you to name the type of stress shown in a picture. Note which pictures you missed and go back to the maps on tension and compression.

1. Read a mind map and say each branch aloud in your own words.
2. Go through a flashcard deck such as Physics-Structures, which covers terms like tension, compression, stress, necking, truss and beam.
3. Take the quiz and check your gaps.
4. Return to the notes on bridges for extra detail.

Other formats and languages

Many maps are repeats of the same topic by different students, with titles such as man-made structures or artificial structures. Compare two of them to see which wording makes most sense to you. A few resources are in Spanish, so you may find a second view of the same ideas. Teachers can use the slides on bridges, including the test review, as a starting point for a lesson.

Where this unit sits

This unit belongs to the strand Structures, Mechanisms and Mechanics, within Engineering and technology (general or other). Pick a map that matches what you are learning now, and then build your own set of flashcards to keep the key terms close.