Get Ready to Build!
This fun and creative activity challenges you to design and build the tallest free-standing tower using spaghetti and marshmallows! It’s a great way to learn about engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving while having lots of hands-on fun.
Are you ready to become an arKIDect and build an amazing tower? Grab your spaghetti and marshmallows, and let’s get started!
What You’ll Need (per builder):
- 30 pieces of spaghetti
- 20 small marshmallows
- 1 large marshmallow
- A measuring tape or ruler (to see how tall your tower is!)
Your Mission:
Build the tallest free-standing tower that can hold a large marshmallow at the very top. The tallest tower wins the challenge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Gather Your Materials:
Each builder gets 30 spaghetti sticks, 20 small marshmallows, and 1 large marshmallow. - Plan Your Design:
Take a minute to sketch your tower idea. Think about strong shapes like triangles and squares that can help keep your structure sturdy. - Build a Solid Base:
Start by creating a stable base using spaghetti and marshmallows. A strong foundation is key to going tall! - Go Up, Up, and Up!
Add layers and connections to make your tower taller. Test the stability as you go. - Top It Off:
Gently place the large marshmallow on top without knocking your tower over! - Measure and Celebrate:
Use a measuring tape or ruler to see whose tower is the tallest. The winner is crowned the arKIDect Champion!
Top Tips from arKIDect Pros:
- Build a strong base before going higher.
- Triangles are super stable—try them in your design!
- Use extra marshmallows to make connections stronger.
- Test each layer to make sure it’s sturdy before moving up.
Why This Activity is Awesome:
- Creativity and Design Thinking: Encourages kids to brainstorm and test ideas.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Helps children learn to troubleshoot and improve their designs.
- Teamwork and Communication: Ideal for group collaboration and sharing ideas.
- STEM Learning: Introduces engineering concepts like stability, balance, and structure.
- Hands-On Fun: Keeps kids engaged while developing fine motor skills.
Think Like an arKIDect!
- What was the coolest part of your design?
- What was tricky, and how did you fix it?
- How would you make your tower even better next time?
Now grab your materials and start building—let’s see who can build the tallest, sturdiest tower! Have fun, arKIDects
