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DISCUSS:
What other materials could you use to build a house?
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DISCUSS:
How could you change the properties of paper to make it better to build with? What would you do?
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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.
Preview activity| Paper Towers worksheet | 30 copies |
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Hardcover Books
If you only have a few books available, students can share.
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Details
8 books
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Rulers
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30 rulers |
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Scissors
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30 pairs |
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Index Cards (3x5)
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600 cards |
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Paper Clips
Bobby pins will also work and may be easier to use for younger students.
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Details
480 clips
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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.
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