Build A Catapult!

Materials Required: 

• 8 Popsicle Sticks

• 5-6 Rubber bands

• Glue

• Plastic bottle cap (Or any circular object that can hold an item)

• Cotton ball (Or a small ball made out of paper)

Project Overview

Build a functional catapult with popsicle sticks! Create your very own catapult to launch and fling! This project is meant for beginners for some fun enjoyment in learning about gravity, physics, energy, and how catapult technology works. This project is also meant for elementary school or for a younger audience.

If you prefer a video or would like to follow along, here’s the video link. How to Make a Popsicle Stick Catapult | STEM Activity

Let’s begin!

Instructions:

1. Grab your materials and an empty space to work with

2. Put six craft sticks on top of each other

3. Wrap them with rubber bands on each opposite side

4. Take another stick and place it in the middle of the big stick you just created

5. Wrap rubber bands around the placed stick in the middle. The stick should be tightly stuck to the 6 popsicle sticks and in a cross formation.

6. Attach another stick to the end of the one you just put (The one laying down in a cross shape)

7. Wrap one last time a rubber band to the EDGE of the stick. The middle stick should form a “V” shape with one end of the stick up in the air.

8. Grab your bottle cap (Or replacement) and glue it onto the stick in the air.

9. Wait until the glue is dry

10. Place your cotton ball (Or replacement) into the cup, push the cup down, and watch your cotton ball fly!

Congratulations on creating your first popsicle stick catapult!