No.262
Paper Tower Challenge
Japanese name: ペーパータワー
You can scroll an enlarged diagram from side to side. Press again to return to its original size.
Diagram key
- A
- Measure the height.
- B
- Let go.
Materials
- 20 sheets of A4 paper plus 1 practice sheet per team
- A tape measure
- A timer
How to play
- Give each team the same number of sheets. Build the tallest freestanding tower using paper alone. Do not attach it to a table, wall or ceiling, or use glue or tape.
- Allow 5 minutes to discuss and test ideas using the one practice sheet. Paper may be folded, rolled or torn by hand, but no other materials may be added.
- At the signal, build with the 20 sheets for 7 minutes. A collapsed tower may be rebuilt as often as time allows.
- At the stop signal, everyone lets go. A tower must stand for 10 seconds to qualify. Measure vertically from the tabletop to its highest point and announce the tallest team’s result.
- Each team shares one useful experiment and one thing to change next time. For a second attempt, provide a fresh set of the same number of sheets.
Ways to adapt
Older primary children can participate with an adult facilitator. Allow more time for planning and practising explanations.