Launch into this STEM activity that focuses on using measurement units for accuracy.

The Paper Field Games combine fun STEM challenges with curriculum content to create a fun, hands-on experience for your students.

In this event, students will create a catapult using pop sticks, rubber bands and a bottle cap. They will then adjust their design to send crumpled-up sticky notes flying as far as possible.

When students begin to measure their attempts, they will first begin by estimating the length of their launch using taped markings on the classroom floor spaced a metre apart. They will then increase the accuracy by measuring with a centimetre ruler before using a ruler with millimetres.

The resource includes five discussion questions to prompt student reflection at the end of the activity.

If you want to hold an ‘all paper’ event, why not look up some origami catapult designs that your students can master?

The resource includes a teacher instruction page, catapult build instructions, a student recording sheet and a reflection question page. Print one recording sheet per team or student depending on your preference.