This very simple Stem Challenge It is an excellent way to find out why arches are such an important structural form. Bridges often have arches to make them stronger and more stable. The arc shape allows any load on the bridge to extend along the arch curve.
Pont du Gard It is a brilliant example of a built bridge of arches.
Arch Bridge Stem Challenge
You will need
Books
Paper
Clips or other small objects
Instructions
Establish two piles of books the same height with a small space between them.
Place a sheet of paper on the top to make a bridge.
Carefully place paper clips on the top until the bridge collapses.
Record the number of paper clips added before the collapsara bridge.
Remove all paper and double clips the same piece of paper in a arc form between book batteries.
Add paper clips again until the bridge breaks.
Can you add more paper clips to the shape of the arc or the flat bridge?
You can see that the arc shape tolerates many more paper clips before collapsing than the flat bridge without support.
Build a Bridge Stem Challenge worksheet
More bridge construction ideas for children
Teaching by my side has a brilliant Palet Pallet Bridge.
Experiment different types of paper bridges.
Build and try a eggshell bridge. It can be stronger than you think!
Last update on April 21, 2023 by Emma Vanstone
#Build #Stem #Arc #Challenge
