The Paper Foundation

RICHARDTON HIGH SCHOOL TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT RICHARDTON, NORTH DAKOTA

THE PAPER FOUNDATION

OBJECTIVE:

To learn the difference between potential and kinetic energy. To learn to use different forces of prime movers.

To learn the principles of forces like compression, torsion, strain, and shear.

To work independently or cooperatively. To learn to brainstorm (lens smashing) and develop problem solving skills. Make decisions using trial and error. Work within a given amount of time. Work with only materials given. Deal with competition with your peers.

PROBLEM:

Using a standard sheet of 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper and 10 cm of clear tape (approx. 4 inches), construct a foundation which will support as much weight as possible.

LIMITATIONS:

Time limits for construction is 30 minutes or instructor’s discretion.

Foundation must be a minimum of 10 cm tall (+ or – 5 mm)

No power tools will be used.

Exacto knife, scissors, paper cutter maybe used.

EVALUATION:

Students will test their own foundations.

A plexiglass disk will be placed between the weight and the foundation.

The weights used can be metric or English. Weight total must be converted.

When weight is added to the foundation, the foundation must hold the weight for a minimum of 15 seconds before the additional weight can be added.

20 points = Strongest foundation (held the most weight).

19 points = 90% of the most weight.

18 points = 85% of the most weight.

17 points = 80% of the most weight.

16 points = 70% of the most weight.

0 points = no foundation submitted.

Name _____________________________________________________

Weight carried by Foundation __________________grams/kilograms.

Weight carried by Foundation __________________ounces/pound.