Structures challenge: bridges or sports stadiums

Full or half day structures event for up to 200 pupils in teams of 4-6 to design sports stadiums or build and test bridges using A4 paper tubes.

Using nothing but scrap A4 paper, masking tape, nuts and bolts, pupils will complete one of the following challenges:

• Design and build a stadium for a sport of their choice then present it to judges
• Design and build a bridge then test it using weights to find the strongest and/or most cost-effective

Both activities are very practical after a short introduction showing real-world examples. Estimating and costing can be included for additional maths content.

Science/maths subject knowledge:

• forces, deformation, gravity
• estimating, costing

Enquiry skills:

• Working scientifically
• Predicting and measuring

Other skills:

• Teamwork
• Co-operation
• Following instructions
• Problem solving
• Presenting results

The STEM Directory is provided as a service to support you in finding enrichment opportunities. The activities are offered by external providers and are not endorsed by STEM Learning. We are not responsible for their content or delivery.