← Free resource libraryEngineering • Free activity
Paper Bridge Engineering
Engineer a paper bridge that supports the greatest load using limited materials.
7–1535–55 minFree to usePrintable page
You will need
Paper, tape, two books, coins
Investigation
What to do
1
Place two books a fixed distance apart.
2
Build a bridge using one sheet of paper.
3
Add coins one at a time until the bridge fails.
4
Change the paper geometry without adding material.
5
Retest and compare the improvement.
Science thinking
What this develops
Structures, compression, geometry, testing and optimisation.
Safety first
Use age-appropriate supervision and safe materials. Stop any activity that is unsuitable for the learner or environment. These resources are educational activities, not professional laboratory, medical or safety instructions.
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