About this lesson
Spark excitement as students explore different types of energy and the science behind energy transfer by designing and building their own cotton ball-launching catapults. In this challenge, learners discover how potential energy, stored when parts of their device are bent or stretched, is transformed into kinetic energy to propel a projectile. Students test and improve their designs, analyzing how factors like angle, force, and design influence launch distance. Hands-on testing makes physics engaging, helping students connect abstract science concepts to real-world engineering and fun experimentation!
* Students design their own catapult; this is not a guided build. Students will not be told how to create a specific type of catapult using specific materials.*
Introduce the challenge
Design & build
Test it
Improve & share
