Inspired by the Tornado Outbreak of 2013, this project is an open ended challenge: Create a tower that's at least 3 craft sticks tall, strong enough to hold up 5lbs, and stable enough to not fall over when buffeted with gusts of wind!
There are no step-by-step instructions for this project; it's a totally open-ended challenge!
Tools and Materials
Testing:
- 5lbs+ of weight
- A large, flat object to create gusts of wind
Tips and Troubleshooting
If the towers are breaking before holding 5lbs of weight, then...
- Make sure to emphasize strong hot glue gun techniques, and using triangles in the design of the structure.
If the towers falling over easily, then...
- Emphasize building a wide base.
If it's difficult to create a large gust of wind, then...
- Review the video: Find a very large, flat object, and use both hands to swing the lid quickly in front of the tower.
Sign up to get 25+ free printable project guides and
lesson plans. We only send things we think you'll love.
© 2026 STEM Inventions