Forms and functions

Grade 7

Form

Refers to how a structure is shaped and built.

Function

Refers to what purpose a structure serves.

Natural structures

Structures made by nature, such as anthills and trees.

Human-made structures

Structures built by people, such as bridges and buildings.

External forces

Forces acting on an object from the outside, like gravity and friction.

Internal forces

Forces within an object, including tension, compression, torsion, and shear.

Tension

A pulling force, exemplified by a stretched rubber band.

Compression

A pushing force, as seen when pressing a spring.

Torsion

A twisting force, illustrated by wringing out a towel.

Shear

Forces pushing in opposite directions, such as scissors cutting paper.

Contact forces

Forces that require physical touch, like friction and pushing a door.

Non-contact forces

Forces that act at a distance, including gravity and magnetism.

Live load

Changing weight acting on a structure, such as people walking on a bridge.

Dead load

Permanent weight of a structure, like the weight of the bridge itself.

Dynamic load

Forces resulting from movement, such as wind on a building.

Beam

A horizontal support in a structure.

Column

A vertical support in a structure.

Arch

A curved structure that distributes weight.

Dome

A spherical roof-like structure.

Truss

A framework of triangles used for support.

Cantilever

A beam fixed at one end and extending outwards.

Corrugation

Folded or wavy material that provides strength.

Rebar

Steel rods used for reinforcing concrete.

I-Beam

A beam shaped like an 'I' that provides strong support.

Center of Gravity

The point where mass is balanced in all directions.

Eco-Friendly Building Materials

Materials like bamboo, recycled steel, reclaimed wood, and straw bales that are sustainable.

Universal Design Principles

Design principles that ensure structures are equal, flexible, simple to use, informative, safe, tolerant of errors, and ergonomic.