STEAM Activity, STEM Activity: Pompom Launcher, Popsicle Stick Catapult

 

What Kids Are Learning For This STEAM Activity, STEM Activity

In a Pompom Launcher (Popsicle Stick Catapult) STEM activity, kids learn about science and engineering by building their own mini catapults. They discover how levers work, experiment with different designs to launch objects, and practice measuring and problem-solving. It’s a fun, hands-on way for children to explore important STEAM, STEM concepts while being creative.

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What You Need For This STEAM Activity, STEM Activity

• 8 Popsicle sticks
• 6 Rubber bands
• 1 Plastic spoon
• Pompoms

 

How To Make A Pompom Launcher (Popsicle Stick Catapult)

 

 

1. Base construction: Create a square base using 6 Popsicle sticks, securing the corners with rubber bands.

   

2. Arm assembly: Attach 2 Popsicle sticks together with rubber bands to form an arm by tying only one side..

   

    

   

3. Mount arm to base: Open up the arm and slide in the base. Secure the arm to the base with a rubber band, creating a lever.

   

4. Add a spoon: Attach the plastic spoon to the free end of the arm using rubber bands.

   

    

   

5. Load and launch: Place a pompom in the spoon, press down, and release to launch.

   

   

6. Explore science: Discuss levers, angles, and the physics of catapults.

 

Variations & Challenges 

• Explore different angles and forces for pompom launch.
• Measure launch distances and record observations.
• Set targets at varying distances and challenge kids to adjust their catapults to hit specific targets accurately.
• Experiment with different objects of varying weights as ammunition to see how it affects launch distances and angles.
• Let kids decorate their catapults.

 

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