Build a Catapult from Craft Sticks

Have you ever wanted to launch small objects across the room for fun? If so, building a catapult from craft sticks is a fantastic project that combines creativity with basic engineering principles! Not only will you learn about how catapults work, but you'll also get to experiment with launching different things and seeing how far they can go. Plus, it's a fun activity you can do at home with just a few materials.

To get started, gather your supplies. You will need craft sticks (also known as popsicle sticks), rubber bands, a spoon (which will act as the launching arm), and small objects to launch like marshmallows, small balls, or even paper wads. Craft sticks are great for this project because they are sturdy and lightweight, making them perfect for building a catapult.

Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to start building! First, take about seven craft sticks and stack them on top of each other. Use a rubber band to secure each end of the stack tightly. This will be the base of your catapult, providing the stability it needs to launch objects.

Next, take two more craft sticks to create the launching arm. Lay one craft stick flat on your work surface and place the other on top of it, forming a “V” shape. Secure the intersection with a rubber band, but leave it loose enough to allow the top stick to pivot. This is crucial because it will help store energy when you pull back the spoon and release it to launch your projectile.

Now, attach the spoon to the end of the top craft stick using a rubber band. Make sure it’s secure but can still move freely. The spoon will hold your projectile (the object you want to launch), and the angle at which you place the spoon can affect how far your object will fly.

To complete your catapult, you need to attach the launching arm to the base. Place the end of the "V" shape on one end of the stack of craft sticks, securing it with another rubber band. Make sure the arm can move up and down easily. If you’ve done everything correctly, your catapult should now be ready to launch!

Now comes the fun part—testing your catapult! Start by placing a small object in the spoon, pull back the spoon to store energy, and release it. Watch as your projectile flies through the air! Try adjusting the angle of the spoon or the amount you pull back to see how it affects the distance the object travels. You can even set up targets around the room and see if you can hit them.

Here are some ideas for things you can launch:

• Mini marshmallows
• Small rubber balls
• Paper wads
• Pom-poms
• Light plastic toys

As you experiment, you might notice that different objects fly differently. This is due to factors like weight and shape. You can even turn this into a science experiment by measuring how far each object travels and recording your results. It’s a great way to learn about physics concepts like force, energy, and projectile motion!

Building a catapult from craft sticks is not just a fun project; it’s also a gateway into the exciting world of engineering and physics. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and enjoy launching your own mini-projectiles around the room. Who knows? You might even come up with your own design or modifications to make your catapult even better! Happy launching!