50+ years ago one-piece solid lumber beams were harvested and plentiful. Due to lumber supply and very high prices, new engineered beams were developed and are very common today.
Your task is to research and compare/contrast glue-lam beams, plywood (how it is made and what it has replaced), and engineered lumber. Include what they are made of, size vs. solid wood beams/materials, overall prices, and the pros/cons. You may include any other information that you feel is relevant.
Google searches may include: Engineered Beams vs. Sawn Lumber Floor Joists Boise Cascade