Special to Atmore News
What can you do with a few popsicle sticks, rubber bands, straws, and spoons? Make a catapult, of course! Project Jubilee students in Mrs. Jill Jones’s class at Perdido Elementary did just that.
This activity incorporates all aspects of a quality STEM [science, technology, engineering, math] activity: math connection, engineering design process, student-driven learning, and hands-on fun!
First, students completed research on catapult designs. Then they discussed ideas, drew a blueprint, and made a materials list. After “purchasing” their supplies the building fun began. To test the designs, they set up a target and collected data on the accuracy and precision of the catapult. After adjustments or redesigns, they tested again. Finally, students calculated the cost of the catapult based on the materials used in the design. They used that information along with the test data to evaluate which catapult they would choose to purchase if it were available for sale on Amazon.