Challenge 003 · Ages 8–13
Paper Bridge Challenge
Build the strongest bridge possible using only paper.
Recommended Guided Learning Time: 2 hours
Learners may require additional or fewer hours depending on age, prior experience, pace and the level of development they choose to take their project to.
Primary STEAM area
Engineering
The Challenge
What will your learner investigate?
Can you build the strongest paper bridge using a limited amount of material?
Learning outcomes
- Explore how shape and structure affect strength.
- Apply measurement and iterative design to construct a bridge.
- Test load capacity and justify improvements.
Connected learning
Mathematics: shape, measurement and load data; Science: forces and materials; Geography: bridges and infrastructure; English: design justification.
Dream Areas
Prepare for this Challenge
What you'll need
Here's what may be useful for completing this activity. Requirements may vary depending on the learner, activity format and equipment available.
Materials & consumables
- A4 paper for building the bridge only (same sheet allowance for every team)
- optional extra paper for sketching, kept outside the build.
Equipment, tools & software
- Two stacks of books or boxes of the same height, with a gap between them for the bridge
- ruler
- identical coins or weights of known mass
- scales (optional). No tape, glue, staples or other joining materials in the bridge.
Safety & preparation
- Keep distances between the two bridge supports, sheet limits and test weights consistent
- paper folding and weaving are permitted.
These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.