Back to School STEM Activity: Craft Stick Catapult Challenge (BTS16)

Bring elastic potential energy to kinetic energy conversion, class-1 lever mechanics, fulcrum position optimization, 45-degree projectile trajectory arcs, target accuracy precision, and distance multi-trial average math to life with the Back to School STEM Activity: Craft Stick Catapult Challenge (BTS16)! Designed for Middle School Physical Science, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Math, Homeroom, and STEM classes across Grades 6–8, this 2-page, print-ready lab packet challenges student teams to engineer craft stick lever catapults to achieve maximum projectile range and target accuracy.

What Is Included in This 2-Page Packet?

• 🎯 Page 1: Student Mission Card & Blueprint

  Hooks students with a real-world ballistics and mechanical physics scenario. Includes strict material and design constraints (10 jumbo craft sticks, 5 rubber bands, 1 plastic spoon, masking tape, mini marshmallow projectiles, fixed launch baseline rule) alongside a dedicated Lever Mechanics & Fulcrum Blueprint workspace to diagram pivot point placement, lever arm effort distance, and rubber band tension anchoring.

• 📊 Page 2: Testing Log & Scientific Reflection

  Features a structured lab testing table tracking pullback arc angles (30° vs. 45° vs. 60°), flight distance in centimeters (cm), and target zone hit accuracy across 3 trial launches. Includes an applied math section to compute Average Launch Distance in centimeters, followed by physics reflection questions evaluating strain energy stored in twisted rubber bands, fulcrum mechanical advantage, apex elevation, and aerodynamic trajectory arcs.

Educational Value & Key Benefits:

• Hands-On Ballistics & Mechanical Physics: Demonstrates how shifting fulcrum placement alters lever torque mechanical advantage and release velocity.

• Integrates Applied Math & Distance Averages: Teaches students how to sum trial measurements and calculate precise mean distance averages.

• Low-Cost High-Engagement STEM: Uses simple dollar-store materials like craft sticks, rubber bands, and plastic spoons for an active, highly competitive physical science challenge across Grades 6–8.