What's the tallest skyscraper anyone can build?

Stacking flat rocks is easy. You don’t have to think about balance. The flat side of one rock holds up the flat side of the rock above it. But imagine stacking rounder rocks. How could you do it?

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This kid moves each rock until he finds the exact position where it balances. Every object has a balance point. The trick to stacking things is finding that point. Some people are really good at that…

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Watch this expert stack a rock, hammers, and walnuts! The balance point of a hammer is always near the hammer’s heavy head. Knowing that helps him make this amazing stack!

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This woman is walking on a wire rope high above the ground. Think about what she is doing to keep herself balanced. Try walking heel to toe on a line without falling. Does that give you any ideas?

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Watch this amazing balance trick. The acrobat who’s upside down does something to help him stay balanced. It’s similar to what the tightrope walker does! Do you know what is helping them?

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To keep your balance, you extend your arms. Spreading out your weight helps keep you from tipping over. That’s why the acrobat spreads his feet wide and the tightrope walker carries a long pole!

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Richie Trimble set a world record for the world’s tallest bicycle. He built a bike that’s as tall as a 2-story house! Would you want a bike like this? Why? Do you see any problems with it?

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Here’s one problem: getting on a tall bike can be tricky. But for tall bike riders, the hard work is worth it! They tower above the traffic, and they have a great view from way up there!

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Most people stand on their feet. But this circus performer can stand on one hand! Wow! Her strength and balance is amazing. Can you think of a way to make a handstand even more amazing?

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These talented acrobats take a handstand to the next level—on the top of a human pyramid! By working together, these acrobats support and balance on each other!

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This trick requires balance and timing—but the boy makes it look easy! Have you ever heard the saying, “Practice makes perfect”? Can you think of a way to practice for tricks like this?

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Andri Ragettli does tricks on skis that take a great sense of balance. He built this obstacle course to practice. It took Andri 148 tries to get all the way through it! (Don’t try this at home.)

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We pulled three questions from our jar. Which question do you want to explore?

Are any animals picky eaters?

-Evan, 4th Grade
Could a baseball pitcher throw faster than the wind?

-Colin, 2nd Grade
Why do some animals sleep during the day?

-Eliana, Kindergarten

Mini-lessons

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What's the tallest skyscraper anyone can build?

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