Straws and Pins

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In this activity, learners build bridges and cantilevers in a series of "building out" challenges with straws and pins. In doing so, learners will experience many of the basic physics and engineering concepts inherent in structures as well explore the concepts of torque and center-of-mass. This resource guide contains background information, discussion questions and extensions. Paper clips can be used by younger learners in place of pins.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 4 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Model
Language:
English, French, Italian

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 50 plastic straws
  • 50 straight pins or paper clips
  • 1 or 2 feet of strong tape (e.g., duct tape)
  • Scissors, for cutting straws
  • 10 weights (e.g., large washers or film canisters filled with sand)
  • Yardstick or meterstick

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Architectural Engineering
      • Civil Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
    • Technology
      • Construction
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Gravity
      • Center of Gravity
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process

Informal Categories

  • Model Building

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Foreign language versions of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • Science After School Consumer's Guide

Rights:

Funding Source:

  • Unisys