The following is from Google's announcement:
Since Google SketchUp first popped up on the scene in 2006, we've had the pleasure of seeing many of you use it to build 3D models of all kinds of things -- from college campuses to furniture to gingerbread houses. Now, we're happy to announce a new challenge -- the SketchUp 2009 International Student Bridge Modeling Competition. Bridges are some of the most breathtaking architectural structures in the world, and we're sure you have an impressive model of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Lupu Bridge in Shanghai, or a local or historical bridge, right up your sleeve. Students at higher education institution are qualified to compete, and it's easy to enter. Just model your bridge in Google SketchUp, geo-reference it in Google Earth, and upload your submission to the Google 3D Warehouse anytime before June 15.
For more information, check out the Google SketchUp blog. We're excited to see what you come up with!
Another resource that I have been using for about 2 years now is the West Point Bridge Design Contest which is very similar to Google's contest, but stresses engineering. My students (grades 7-12) have really enjoyed it because it is very easy to use, plus the program actually animates the testing process. If the bridge is not strong enough, the truck falls in the water.
I love bridges, they represent challenges on so many different levels: designs, materials, locations, maintenance, etc. I have been building bridges with my classes since I started teaching. Nothing can stress the importance of being thorough like building a bridge and then testing it. The weakest point always fails first.
Right now my 9th graders are building toothpick bridges (I will post pics when they are done) and they are coming around swimmingly.
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