Catapult (Jovanny Navarro)
Author(s)
Jovanny Navarro
NGSS Engineering Standards
3-5-ETS1-3: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.
PS2A - Forces and motion
Materials needed
Popsicle Sticks
Tape
Procedure
Restrictions:
Students are limited to building a catapult with a base no larger than 15 cm x 15 cm.
Students are also limited to no more than 15 Popsicle sticks.
Begin by showing students this catapult video.
Here are the materials
Begin by building a base
Next build the two sides
Connect the sides to the base and add additional supports.
Add the arm
Questions
Why was the catapult such a devastating weapon?
How might the length of the arm affect the distance a catapult can launch an object?
What is the purpose of the cross bar?