Build a Super Structure

Add to list Go to activity
In this activity, learners use things from the kitchen as building materials to explore how shapes contribute to the strength of different structures. Learners are challenged to construct different shaped structures using different quantities of supplies and then test their ability to support weight. This resource lists four challenges, including a final challenge where learners attempt to build a bridge in between two chairs 1 foot apart that can hold the weight of a cup of quarters. [Activity is publicly available through a web crawler capture on Archive.org.]

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • a package of toothpicks
  • miniature marshmallows (or modeling clay)
  • a hardcover book
  • 2 chairs
  • 5 quarters in a paper cup

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Architectural Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
  • Mathematics
    • Geometry
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking
  • Model Building

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Ontario Science Centre, 2011