Engineer Emily Warren Roebling Research Task

This engaging research worksheet guides students through the life and legacy of Emily Warren Roebling, highlighting her crucial role in completing the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s an ideal resource for teaching engineering history, project management, and the role of women in STEM.

Students explore key questions about Emily’s background, her leadership following her husband’s illness, the technical and social challenges she faced, and the lasting impact of her work.

What will I get in this resource?

• 1. 2 page reading comprehension
• 1. 2 page worksheet
• 1. Emily Warren Roebling Find-A-Word
• 1. Sample solutions

Why Teachers will Love This Resource

Perfect for Design and Technology, STEM, or Engineering lessons and ideal for cover or emergency classes.

Celebrates women in STEM and Showcases Emily Roebling as a trailblazer in engineering.

Encourages research and critical thinking – Prompts reflection on biography, engineering design, and social context.

Explores real-world engineering challenges – Students investigate constraints such as cost, materials (steel cables), safety, and environmental factors.

Includes video supporting link to a YouTube video as an additional supplimentary research resource.

Curriculum Links (UK)

• Design & Technology

Investigate historical context and user needs of the Brooklyn Bridge
Analyse design constraints: materials, cost, environment, and safety
Understand engineering principles and project scale

History

Explore women’s changing roles in 19th–20th century society
Study major technological and civil engineering achievements

Science (Physics)

Examine the properties of steel and its use in large structures
Understand forces and load-bearing in bridge construction