Fourth and fifth graders problem-solved as they constructed catapults in the Jackson Library last week and this week. The groups were all given 20 popsicle sticks, 7 thick rubber bands, a plastic spoon, a pom pom, and these instructions. They were not required to use the instruction sheet; it was just a guide. After about 12 minutes, they tested their catapult (3 tries), and then went to the tables to redesign for about 5 more minutes. Finally, they launched their catapults again. It was interesting to see the improvements they made the second time around!
Buggy and Buddy Catapult Instructions
