Novel Engineering--  "Students use existing classroom literature – stories, novels, and expository texts – as the basis for engineering design challenges that help them identify problems, design realistic solutions, and engage in the Engineering Design Process while reinforcing their literacy skills." www.novelengineering.org
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Overall Process:

1. Read a book and identify problems.
2. Scope problems and brainstorm solutions.
3. Design a solution.
4. Get feedback.
5. Improve designs.
6. Share.

In the left photo - the students created a "calm down area" for King Midas (plus some nice gloves). 

Novel Engineering projects are designed around books/stories that the teacher chooses. There are some great book examples on the library tab of Novel Engineering Website. Teachers have also used fables for Novel Engineering projects.

Design Thinking

Novel Engineering follows the design process:

• Ask/identify the problem
• Imagine/brainstorm
• Plan
• Create
• Test
• Improve
• Share

 Making/Creating/Engineering
Using inexpensive materials (straws, cups, sticks, notecards, cardboard, etc.) or other maker materials (legos, play dough, etc.), students make and test their solution. 

Finding a solution for the Fox to be able to "get the grapes".

Fox and the Grapes Fable

King Midas - suit of armor