Challenge 006 · Ages 6–10
Straw Tower
Build the tallest free-standing tower from drinking straws.
Recommended Guided Learning Time: 1.5 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 tallest free-standing straw tower that remains stable?
Learning outcomes
- Identify features that make structures stable.
- Use geometric shapes and joining methods in construction.
- Measure height and improve a structure after testing.
Connected learning
Mathematics: measurement and 2D/3D shapes; Science: forces and balance; Art: form; English: collaborative explanation.
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
- Drinking straws
- masking tape
- paper for sketches.
Equipment, tools & software
- Ruler or tape measure
- a level table or desk
- scissors.
Safety & preparation
- Set a clear stability test and avoid sharp cut straw edges.
These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.