Egg-stra Strength

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In this physics activity, learners will investigate the strength of egg shells. They will attempt to stack books on top of inverted half egg shells to see how many they can hold, and the results may be surprising! This activity provides an excellent "Wow" moment while teaching an important scientific concept.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 11
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 4 egg shell halves (as nearly the same size as possible)
  • Books of varying size and weight (hardcover books work best)
  • A kitchen table or countertop

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Architectural Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Mass and Weight

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, COSI Columbus, 2009