Titanic Engineering Design Failure + Video

An excellent resource for cross-curricular learning that combines engineering design, STEM literacy, and historical analysis. Ideal for lessons exploring how engineers learn from failure — and how those lessons shape safer, smarter technologies today.

This engaging postcard-style activity introduces students to one of history’s most significant engineering failures — the Titanic. Students take on the role of an engineer who worked on the Titanic’s design and construction, reflecting on what went wrong, what could have been done differently, and what lessons modern engineers can learn from the tragedy.

Designed for KS3–KS4 students, this resource develops critical thinking, reflection, and an understanding of how engineering, materials, and human decisions can impact safety and design outcomes.

Students complete a short written reflection in postcard form by using a combination of the linked video and their own individual research. The activity encourages systems thinking and evaluation — key components of both engineering and design processes.

Perfect for use as a standalone lesson, cover activity, or part of a larger unit on engineering design, historical case studies, or risk management.

What’s Included

• Printable postcard style worksheet (1 page PDF)
• Foldable printable postcard style worksheet V2 (2 page PDF)
• Reflection prompts on design failure, decision-making, and lessons learned.
• YouTube link for supporting classroom discussion or flipped learning.
• MP4 youtube file for easy viewing.

**Design & Technology – KS3 **

• Investigate and analyse how past and present engineers have influenced the design of products and systems.
• Understand and apply the principles of strength, structure, and material selection in design.
• Evaluate the impact of engineering decisions on users, safety, and the environment.
• Develop creative and critical thinking when analysing why designs succeed or fail.

Engineering – Level 2/3 Vocational Specifications (e.g. BTEC, Cambridge Nationals)

• Understand the causes of engineering failure and the importance of risk management and quality assurance.
• Evaluate how real-world case studies influence improvements in engineering design.
• Develop problem-solving and evaluation skills relevant to real engineering contexts.

Science – KS3

Explore how materials and forces interact and contribute to structural strength or failure.

Understand how science and engineering work together to prevent accidents and improve technology.

History – KS3

Link to the Industrial Revolution and the development of large-scale engineering projects.

Analyse the human, social, and technological impacts of historical engineering disasters.

This is one of a series of similar design failures postcards currently in the store.