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Build a marshmallow launcher
Learn about the engineering design process and physics in this engaging activity
In this engaging activity, you will build a marshmallow catapult and learn about the engineering design process and physics in the process. You probably have these simple supplies at home — try it out!
Supplies:
- 9 jumbo craft sticks
- 5 rubber bands
- 1 plastic spoon
- Mini marshmallows
- Markers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Stack 7 craft sticks on top of each other and fasten them together tightly with a rubber band on each of the ends to tightly secure.
2. Grab 2 more craft sticks and fasten those together with a rubber band at one end creating a “V-like” shape. Then place them in between the first stack of 7 sticks you created.
3. Secure the 2 parts together with a rubber band in the middle where the sticks meet. To do this you’ll wrap around one side of the stick stack and the center sticks, then cross over and do the same for the other side of the stack. Keep alternating sides and wrapping until the rubber bands are tightly secured.
4. Use a rubber band to attach the plastic spoon to the top stick in the “V.” The end of the spoon should just come under the center rubber bands from the previous step, and the bowl of the spoon should be just off the surface of the stick. The spoon serves as your bucket for holding and launching your marshmallows!
5. Optional — decorate your launcher with markers, crayons, or stickers. You can also create a target to try to get your marshmallows to hit.
6. Test it out! Place mini-marshmallow into the spoon’s bowl. Use one hand to hold the bottom of the catapult down while using one finger from your other hand to gently pull back on the spoon. Release the finger on the spoon to launch the marshmallow in the air!
Engineers learn by using the engineering design process, which involves planning, designing, then testing an idea, troubleshooting problems with that idea, then improving the idea and repeating the process. You can apply these steps to learn how to operate your catapult for greatest success.
- Try applying different levels of force to your catapult launcher. What do you notice about pushing lightly versus pushing with more force? Which worked better?
- Try launching with your catapult placed on the floor. Then try launching from an elevated surface (chair or table). What happened with each method? Which marshmallow went further? Why?
This activity was adapted from 4-H STEM: Marshmallow Catapults, University of New Hampshire Extension. To get your child involved in fun learning opportunities, check out our 4-H Clubs and more by visiting extension.iastate.edu/linn/4h.
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County helps build a strong Iowa by engaging Iowans in research, education, and extension experiences to address current and emerging real-life challenges.
Comments: (319) 398-8411; grace.king@thegazette.com
Stack 7 craft sticks on top of each other and fasten them together tightly with a rubber band on each of the ends to tightly secure. (Photo provided by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County)
Grab 2 more craft sticks and fasten those together with a rubber band at one end creating a “V-like” shape. Then place them in between the first stack of 7 sticks you created. (Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County)
Secure the 2 parts together with a rubber band in the middle where the sticks meet. To do this you’ll wrap around one side of the stick stack and the center sticks, then cross over and do the same for the other side of the stack. Keep alternating sides and wrapping until the rubber bands are tightly secured. (Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County)
Use a rubber band to attach the plastic spoon to the top stick in the “V.” The end of the spoon should just come under the center rubber bands from the previous step, and the bowl of the spoon should be just off the surface of the stick. (Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County)
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