Constructing a Marshmallow Catapult

Abstract

This case will present a project-based scenario where students will take the place of an astronaut stranded on Mars. Like the character in the Disney film The Martian, the astronaut only has a small collection of “spare parts” at his disposal to ensure survival. In this scenario, our astronauts meet predators and in an effort to fend them off, they must design and construct a catapult. During this deep dive process the astronauts working in groups of four, will take an inventory of spare parts available, design and draw a plan for building, build the catapult, test the catapult, and then go through a series of revisions, retesting and sharing their redesigns.