Earthquake Proof Toothpick Clay Tower Lab - Engineering Design Challenge

Engaging, low-prep engineering challenge where students use clay and toothpicks to build a stable tower. Great hands-on activity that can be connected to seismic waves, architecture, and teamwork.

Google slides editable!

Goal:  Build the tallest free-standing tower that will survive an “earthquake.”

Supplies: 20 toothpicks, 1 chunk of clay

You will build your tower on top of a sheet of paper.

The paper below will be shaken for 10 seconds.

1. Break the clay up into smaller chunks.
2. Triangles are stronger shapes than squares.
3. Clay only touches the paper or your hands!

Design: Draw what your tower will look like in the space below. Label the materials used.

Redesign Process: How did you (or could you) change your tower to be taller or more stable?

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