Ping-Pong balls make for great STEM challenge materials. Our Ping-Pong Problem-Solving STEAM activity challenges students to build a structure that will hold a Ping-Pong ball cantilevered as far away as possible. Have them work together in groups to solve the challenge in under 8 minutes and see which group can earn the most points!
Ping-Pong Problem-Solving Challenge Instructions
Challenge: Build a structure with a base inside of a taped square to hold a Ping-Pong ball cantilevered as far as possible from the taped square.
Setup: On the floor, use masking tape to create a 12in x 12in square.
Materials: 6 straws, 6 index cards, 6 inches of masking tape, 3 paper clips, 3 feet of string, 1 Ping-Pong ball, 1 pair of scissors
*The scissors may not be damaged and may not be used as part of the solution
Time: 8 minutes
Scoring:
A. 4 points for every inch of cantilever of the Ping-Pong ball from the taped square (Up to 80 points max)
B. Up to 20 points for the creativity of your structure
C. Up to 20 points for how well your group works together
Need more STEAM for your week? Download our Parent’s Guide to the Creative Process and get 10 free STEAM challenges to unlock your child’s power to create and innovate. Are you a teacher? Download our Teacher’s Guide to the Creative Process for 10 inquiry-based activities you can use in your classroom.
