Engineering Challenge – Building for Hurricanes

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Program Information

Children are given simple materials and design requirements, then build a tower as tall as possible that will hold up a tennis ball while resisting the force of wind from a fan. You can modify the materials and requirements based on whatever you have on hand. For example, omit the tennis ball and just see who can build the highest tower out of index cards and tape. Then see which one best withstand the forces of a “hurricane.” For an extra challenge, a spray bottle can be used to simulate rain. Consider running a background video on hurricanes or weather while the children build their towers. This program is based on the activity developed by NASA and Global Precipitation Measurement. See links under Resources to access Printables.

Suggested runtime: 30–60 minutes.

 

Available Resources

Activity Instructions
Activity Instructions
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  • Create Date August 9, 2021
  • Last Updated August 9, 2021