Medieval Times / Pop Stick Catapults
Pop Stick Catapults
Children build simple catapults from pop sticks, rubber bands and plastic spoons, then test and improve how far they can launch a soft missile.
How to run it
- Stack five pop sticks and band both ends tightly.
- Band two more sticks together at one end only and wedge the stack between them.
- Band a plastic spoon to the top stick.
- Launch pompoms or scrunched paper and measure the distance.
- Adjust the design and test again.
You will need
- pop sticks
- rubber bands
- plastic spoons
- pompoms or scrunched paper
- tape measure
Make it easier or harderPre-band the stacks for younger children; older children can graph distances and compare designs.
SafetyLaunch only soft items, never at people, and use a clear launch zone.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children test ideas, measure results and refine their designs.
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