The City of Ember

Plot:
Ember was built centuries ago and far underground to protect a group of people from a war. The city’s people do not know that they are underground or that they need to return to the surface. Lina and Doon learn that Ember is doomed and figure out how to escape.

Problems identified by students:

Carrying Lina’s toddler sister during the long trip out of Ember is difficult
There is no communication system between houses at night when lights are off
It will be difficult to transport everyone in Ember to the surface

Solutions designed by students:

A carrier designed to carry a toddler safely and comfortably
A system to carry messages between houses using string, pulleys and bells
A Ferris-wheel-like system for carrying people up and out of Ember

Grade:
5th