Lesson 1: Launcher Challenge

Back to Lesson 1

Challenge

Build a launcher capable of launching a 3-inch bean bag between 18 and 24 inches.

Required Setup

• A bean bag or another launchable item that will not roll away

Suggested Materials

• Plastic spoons
• Rubber bands
• Cardboard or cardstock
• Popsicle sticks
• Tape or glue
• A 3-inch bean bag for testing

Goal for Your Team

Create a launcher that sends the object the required distance with control and consistency.

TODO

• Add a student worksheet for defining the problem, constraints, and success criteria.
• Add step-by-step build and testing instructions for the launcher challenge.
• Add a planning section for sketching launcher ideas and choosing materials.
• Add a test data table for recording launch distance, consistency, and design changes.
• Add reflection questions tied to the engineering design process used in Lesson 1.