![]() To take our catapult as an example, it works because the potential energy stored in a stretched rubber band is converted to kinetic energy as it snaps back to its original shape.īut where does that potential energy come from? Isn’t it true that energy can’t be created!? As we talked about in our Yoda experiment, energy can’t be created or destroyed, but it can be transferred. The design of catapults changed and improved in step with technological advancements, but the main idea stayed the same – it uses stored energy. Why did catapults endure through the centuries?īecause they were very effective in getting the job done – hurling a projectile a great distance! We think painting the popsicle sticks is a super fun activity all in itself! The Science of Catapults It’s way, WAY, way more fun to play for points! I made you a little video to show how we score it. Pom poms and crumpled paper (like leftover gift wrap) make excellent projectiles. Place a plastic spoon on top of the single stick (from step 2).Īnd attach them with the last rubber band. Slide the last stick between the bottom stick and the rest of the stack. If you have extra sticks, you can use an additional stick here for extra stability. The idea is to make a sturdy base and a nice slope (the fulcrum) for the arm (that propels the payload). Note: there is nothing magic about the number 5 you can use 6 or 4 popsicle sticks. Take 5 popsicle sticks, line them up on top of each other, and secure them with a rubber band on one side. Thank you for your support!Ħ jumbo popsicle sticks (see note in step 1)Īmmo (crumpled paper, pom poms, or marshmallows) What to do 1. It means Kid Minds will benefit from your purchase. Why did catapults endure through the centuries? Scroll down to The Science section at the end of the post to find out! How to Build a Really Good Catapult What you needĭisclaimer: The following links are Amazon affiliate links. ![]() The grossest use of catapults we read about was when the bodies of those who died from the infectious disease were hurled over the city wall to infect the residing residents. That particular use is very interesting to watch. Grenade catapults were used in World War I, and today catapults are used to launch airplanes from aircraft carriers. The French used them in England during the famous Siege of Dover and pirates during the golden age of piracy. The Ancient Greeks used them in siege warfare, as did the Romans and the Chinese. In fact, the first documented use of catapults goes back to 399 BC. Human beings have been building catapults for a very long time. Yes, you have to □ (Scroll down for our scoring download). Build a classic catapult and let them win by scoring the most points.Say, that took a lot of imagination! Tell me more about it! And actively listen.Ask your child, what are you working on? And plop down on the floor next to her or him to get a better look.Stepping into their world with childlike curiosity and wonder might seem time/energy-consuming, but it has some potent perks for us as adults! It stimulates our brains, creates a meaningful connection, and makes our days more fun. You can say, what do you think you’re doing!? You can also say, Can I join you? It’s up to you to decide what you want to do with that. Or to inspire your nine-year-old to collect all the toilet paper from around the house to build a snow fort just in case the roof of the house comes off in the storm… It’s the same energy that suddenly propels your toddler to start toddling in the opposite direction, away from you to some target in the distance that’s caught their eye. If you’ve been around small children for any amount of time, you’ve probably noticed that signature look of restless excitement they get from time to time… when their eyes shine with curiosity and their youthful energy of “ there might be something more out there for me” urges them ahead to explore what’s in the back of your pots’ drawer or behind the books in the bookcase. Inside: This classic catapult combines active learning with loads of fun, and it’s made with just 3 things: popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and a spoon.
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