In the field of construction, most structures are supported by several groups of truss systems working together synergistically. A "truss" is a group of centered and balanced elements combined to carry a common load (Warner, 2003). Trusses provide strength against loads and forces within a structure. Though a complex field of study, structural truss making can often be simplified by identifying three major relational elements: primary, secondary and tertiary. The terms "primary," "secondary" and "tertiary" describe the roles that different elements play within a truss system. This terminology also serves as a relational link in comprehending how elements interact between themselves and the forces and loads applied to them. Having awareness of the relational roles that these three elements play leads to a good understanding of trusses and their construction. In this article, the authors discuss a project that asks students to design and build a truss containing at least eight total elements, using at least one of each element: primary, secondary and tertiary. After building the truss, students identify and test the forces acting on the primary, secondary and tertiary elements of their truss. (Contains 1 figure.)