Wood craft sticks
Rubber bands
Plastic bottle caps
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Small objects to launch (e.g., marshmallows, small balls)
Ruler
Scissors (for cutting rubber bands if necessary)
Introduction:
Discuss the historical use of catapults in the Middle Ages, including their role in sieges and warfare.
Build the Catapult:
Base Construction:
Stack 4-6 craft sticks together and secure them with rubber bands at both ends to form the base of the catapult.
Attach additional craft sticks to the sides of the base, perpendicular to create a stable platform.
Arm Construction:
Use 2-3 craft sticks to form the catapult arm. Secure them together with rubber bands.
Attach one end of the arm to the base using a rubber band, allowing it to pivot.
Launch Mechanism:
Glue a plastic bottle cap to the end of the catapult arm. This will be the scoop that holds the object to be launched.
Create a tension mechanism by securing a rubber band between the base and the arm to provide the launching force.
Testing and Adjustments:
Use a ruler to measure the distance of each launch. Adjust the tension of the rubber bands and the angle of the arm to optimize performance.
Encourage students to make adjustments to their designs to improve accuracy and distance.
Competition and Reflection:
Organize a friendly competition to see whose catapult launches the farthest or most accurately.
Reflect on the engineering process and discuss what worked well and what could be improved.
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