Equilibrium of rigid bodies in 3D is one of the most challenging topics in Statics.  The card aims to describe an EML classroom activity focusing on this topic.

The EML activity is designed based on problem-based learning (PBL) and incorporates active learning strategies, including cooperative learning and a physical artifact or a small-scale model of an antenna tower.  Students collaborate in groups using the provided handout to complete the activity, while the instructor offers guidance and answers questions as needed. 

The activity begins by linking it to a real-world scenario, using the failure of a guyed antenna tower during a tornado as the hook.  Students are provided with a small-scale model that represents the full-scale antenna tower.  The model provides a physical and interactive visualization of the tower.  The students are tasked with drawing a free-body diagram of the tower, applying the principles learned in class to determine the unknown forces in cables, selecting the appropriate wires from a provided list, and calculating the total wire cost.

To create a stronger hook and more engaging introduction to the problem, may use the YouTube video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqakPzbDrpE