Embedded Files
Task Description
Students were tasked with developing a ballista system with popsicle sticks, rubber bands, tape and cotton. Students were to design with limited resources and time in mind. Through building, testing and modifying the design together, students learnt to work with an engineering mindset and to work as a team.
Student's work
Group Reflection
This was a big challenge for us. We had many problems such as working in a team, using materials, stabilising the ballista, and the launching process. In one of our modifying and testing moments, we carelessly broke the ballista too. After many tries, one of the simplest solutions was to change the shape of the paper clip, and it helped stabilize our ballista. If we could do it again next time, we would add magnets and hot glue to stabilize the ballista more. Then we could pull harder and launch further. The most enjoyable part of the project was when our ballista finally launched successfully, because we had many problems for a long time, and we finally fixed it. That was the best feeling.
Teacher's Comment
The STEM group were able to carry out the whole project very well. Students faced different kinds of challenges building their ballista but they were able to overcome them successfully. They learnt to better communicate and work together as a team. They were also able to modify their first built through continuous trial and errors. Students enjoyed the success they had for a successful launch of the ballista as it only came after all the failures. But you all did it at the end, well done! Overall the STEM group worked cohesively to design and built a successful ballista.
Page updated
Report abuse