After School Quick STEM / Spaghetti and Tape Tower
Spaghetti and Tape Tower
Small teams build the tallest free-standing tower they can from dry spaghetti and tape, learning about triangles, bracing and teamwork.
How to run it
- Give each team the same number of dry spaghetti strands and a length of tape.
- Set a time limit and explain the tower must stand on its own.
- Encourage teams to try triangles and wide bases.
- Measure each tower when time is up.
- Ask teams what they would change next time.
You will need
- dry spaghetti
- masking tape
- measuring tape
- optional marshmallow for the top
Make it easier or harderYounger children can use extra tape and no time limit; older children can add a weight that the tower must hold.
SafetyRemind children not to eat the raw spaghetti; check for gluten allergies and sweep up broken pieces.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4, Outcome 5Teams share ideas, negotiate roles and test designs, building collaboration and problem-solving.
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