STEM & Maker Activity 3

Paper Tower Challenge
Supplies, instructions, resources, and worksheets are below!

Paper Tower Challenge

Project Description
How tall can you build a paper tower using just 2 pieces of paper before it falls? Predict how tall you can build a tower using only two sheets of 8 1/2″ x 11″ paper. You can cut, tear, or bend the paper. How close can you get to your prediction before the tower falls? You may find better ways to make your tower as you build it. Try it again and see if you can beat your prediction. Use the Investigative Worksheet to record your findings.

Activity Time
Short (1-2 hours)

Supplies Needed
3 pieces of 8 1/2″ x 11″ paper
Scissors
Ruler or tape measure
Tape (optional)
Flat surface
Investigative Worksheet

Learning Objectives
Basic engineering and construction principles
Understanding gravity
Understanding height and strength
Predicting
Investigating
Strengthen problem solving

Vocabulary Terms to Understand
Look up each word and write their definition.
gravity
strength
height
base
prediction
load
stable
unstable
balance
structure
model
support
design

Example Instructional Video

Instructions
1. Print the Investigative Worksheet.
2. Use 1 piece of paper to sketch out your Paper Tower building design and plan.

3. Make the Paper Tower. You can cut, tear, or bend your paper.
4. Measure the height of the Paper Tower.
5. Record your findings and discuss with your teacher what happened.
6. Take a picture of your Paper Tower and send it to info@discoveryk12.com with your first name and grade level, and we’ll share it in the Multipurpose!

Questions
How close did you get to your prediction?
How would you improve your tower?
How does height affect the speed at which it falls?
How does height and weight affect the speed at which it falls?

More Resources and Alternative Versions
Build a Tower Using 2 Sheets of Paper
Newspaper Tower

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