DISCUSS:
What other materials could you use to build a house?
DISCUSS:
How could you change the properties of paper to make it better to build with? What would you do?
You've completed the Exploration & Activity!
If you have more time, view the assessment, reading, and extension activity in the extensions.
In this video, an Inuit boy living in northern Canada learns how to build a traditional igloo from his father. (2:53, BBC)
Watch and discuss: Why do you think they used snow to build their shelter? Do you think it was a good idea for the boy to learn this skill? How would you feel about spending the night in an igloo?
When you’re done, read “A House of Snow and Ice” to find out more, and discuss. (Grades 2/3, Ohio State University)
Do you think you could build a house all by yourself?
Meet world card-stacking champion Bryan Berg. Using only cards, with no glue or tape, Berg has built freestanding towers more than 25 feet tall. (That’s as tall as two giraffes standing on top of one another!)
Some artists use old junk to make their art. Can you figure out what bits of junk an artist used to make these scrap-metal cats ? Search online for “found art” to see other art made from bits and pieces.
Exploration | 12 min |
Hands-On Activity | 30 min |
Wrap-Up | 3 min |
Grade | 2nd |
Topic | Properties & Phases Of Matter |
Focus | Materials, Properties, & Engineering |
In this lesson, students examine how large structures like houses are built from smaller pieces. In the activity, Paper Towers, they design their own structures using an unconventional building material: paper! Students build towers using 3" x 5" index cards and paper clips. First, they build tall towers, then they are challenged to build towers strong enough to support a hardcover book.
Paper Towers worksheet | 30 copies |
Hardcover Books
If you only have a few books available, students can share.
|
Details
8 books
|
Rulers
|
30 rulers |
Scissors
|
30 pairs |
Index Cards (3x5)
|
600 cards |
Paper Clips
Bobby pins will also work and may be easier to use for younger students.
|
Details
480 clips
|
Each student will create their own paper tower, but we suggest students work in pairs to share ideas.
Each student will need a flat, level area where they can build a tower without bumping into someone else’s. Desktops and tables are great. Floor space works as long as you have a hard surface. We don’t recommend building towers on a carpet.
Grade | 2nd |
Topic | Properties & Phases Of Matter |
Focus | Materials, Properties, & Engineering |
Please follow these steps: