8 Fun Novel Engineering Classroom Activities

What is Novel Engineering?

Novel Engineering is a powerful, interdisciplinary teaching approach that brings literature and STEM together in an engaging and meaningful way. By using stories from books as the foundation for real-world engineering challenges, students are encouraged to:

•  Think critically

•  Empathize with characters

• Apply problem-solving skills in creative ways.

In the classroom, Novel Engineering turns traditional reading assignments into dynamic, project-based experiences that help students see the relevance of both literacy and engineering in their everyday lives. This blog article highlights 8 classroom activities that pair popular Novel Engineering books with creative activity ideas.

Still want to learn more? Check out our FAQ section at the bottom of the page!

Content

1. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

2. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

3. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

4. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

5. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

6. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

7. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

8. Refugee by Alan Gratz

1. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

   Design a device or tool that helps Peter walk on deep snow without sinking—like mini snowshoes or a sled for easier movement.

   
   

2. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

   Build a simple model of a robot or tool that helps Ada clean up her messes after a big experiment.

    

3. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

   Build a garden gate or fence that protects Mr. McGregor’s vegetables while still allowing easy access for him to water and harvest.

    

4. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

   Design a mini obstacle course or exercise area to help Wilbur stay active and healthy before the fair.

    

5. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

   Invent a toy or calming device to help Winn-Dixie feel safe during thunderstorms.

    

6. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

   Create a portable “calm-down” pod or privacy nook where students can go when they’re feeling overwhelmed, similar to how Auggie might feel during tough days.

    

7. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

   Construct a shelter Roz could build using only natural materials from the island.

    

8. Refugee by Alan Gratz

   Build a small-scale water filtration or purification device that could help a family access clean drinking water while on the move.

Check out this list from Tufts University to discover more books that work well for Novel Engineering!

Novel Engineering opens the door to imaginative, student-driven learning where stories spark real-world problem solving. It fosters collaboration, design thinking, and empathy in a natural, engaging way. With each new book, students gain opportunities to innovate, reflect, and connect their ideas to both literature and life—making every lesson more meaningful.

FAQs

Q: How can I integrate STEM into a reading lesson?

A: STEM can be integrated into reading lessons by using books as inspiration for hands-on projects. Activities can include designing solutions to problems characters face, building models, or conducting experiments that reinforce story concepts.

Q: What is project-based learning?

A: Project-based learning (PBL) is an instructional method where students learn by actively engaging in real-world and meaningful projects. In Novel Engineering, PBL involves designing solutions inspired by stories, combining literacy and STEM learning.

Q: What grade levels can use Novel Engineering?

A: Novel Engineering activities can be adapted for students in grades K-12. The complexity of the project and the materials used can be adjusted to suit the age and skill level of the students.

Q: What skills do students develop with Novel Engineering?

A: Students develop critical thinking, empathy, collaboration, problem-solving, and engineering design skills. They also enhance literacy by connecting reading comprehension with hands-on STEM activities.