Tornado Tower
Project Snapshot
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!
Click to expand
Tools and Materials
The Engineering Creation Kit has everything you need for this project and many more from STEM Inventions, or get the supplies in bulk:
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.