Activity: Spaghetti & Marshmallow

Materials:

• 20 sticks of uncooked spaghetti per team

• 1 marshmallow per team

• 1 yard of scotch tape per team

• 1 yard of string per team

• Timer

• Measuring tape or ruler

 Instructions:

Divide participants into 3 teams. The goal is to build the tallest freestanding structure that can support a marshmallow on top. The marshmallow must be the highest point of the structure.

Set a time limit, typically 5 to 10 minutes. This adds a sense of urgency and encourages quick decision-making. Teams can only use the provided materials: spaghetti, tape, string, and one marshmallow. Breaking the spaghetti or using additional materials is not allowed.

At the end of the time limit, measure the height of each structure from the base to the top of the marshmallow. The team with the tallest freestanding structure wins.

Team 1: Team 1, you are the trust team. Before we begin, please appoint one member who is allowed to instruct your team. No one else is allowed to speak. Please do not instruct your team before the activity begins.

Team 2: Team 2, you are the communication team. You are allowed to speak to one another before and during the game.

Team 3: Team 3, you are the cooperation team. Your goal is to build a freestanding structure without speaking. However, you may take a moment to decide on a strategy before the game begins. Once the game begins, you are not allowed to speak.