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?

Photos