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A Genius Idea
A Genius Idea to reach for the sky
- Secondary 1
- Secondary 2
- Secondary 3
- Secondary 4
- Secondary 5
25–35 minutes
An engineering challenge in which students design and build the tallest, straightest tower possible using only the materials provided. The free-standing structure must be able to support a golf ball or cell phone at its maximum height. This activity allows students to explore the properties of materials, structural stability, and the design principles used in structural engineering.
Physical principles covered
- Properties of materials (rigidity, flexibility, compression)
- Structural stability
- Structural shapes (the triangle)
- Links and assembling techniques
- Effects of forces in a technical object
Required materials
- 8 straws
- 4 pipe cleaners
- Adhesive tape
- 4 letter-size paper sheets
- Scissors
- Golf ball
- Measuring tape or telephone with Phyphox app installed
Concepts from the Québec Education Program
Science and Technology – The technological world:
- Design of technical objects
- Properties of materials
- Characteristics of links in a technical object
- Effects of a force on a technical object
- Competency 1: Seeks answers or solutions to scientific or technological problems