The Dot Bridge Activity

Dot Day STEM Activity | The Dot by Peter Reynolds Bridge Challenge

Celebrate Dot Day with a hands-on STEM challenge inspired by The Dot by Peter Reynolds! This engaging The Dot book activity invites students to build a bridge using popsicle sticks and dot stickers while practicing creativity, problem-solving, and a growth mindset. It’s a meaningful way to connect your International Dot Day celebration with engineering and literacy.

Can your students build a stronger bridge on their second try?

Students plan and build a bridge using 10 popsicle sticks and 15 dot stickers, then test how many washers it can hold. After reflecting on what worked, they redesign, test again, and compare their results. Just like Vashti, students discover that their first attempt is an opportunity to learn and grow!

What’s Included:

• Step-by-step teacher instructions and a link to Canva lesson slides
• Student challenge letter
• Engineering design process posters and guiding questions
• Planning page and optional bridge mats
• Testing and reflection worksheet
• Growth mindset bulletin board components
• Letter-writing activity to Vashti
• NGSS, Common Core, and TEKS connections

Materials Needed:

• 10 large popsicle sticks per bridge
• 15 dot stickers per bridge
• Two tissue boxes or cups for bridge supports
• Washers for testing
• Optional: The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds and the included bridge mat

Perfect For:

• International Dot Day activities
• The Dot read-aloud extensions
• Elementary STEM lessons and makerspaces
• Growth mindset lessons
• Collaborative engineering challenges