Off to the Boat Races | STEM Activities

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Materials (per team)

Students are required to use at least two materials, but not all are mandatory.

Rectangular pool, filled with water
Scissors
Duct tape
Hot glue

SUGGESTED MATERIALS FOR BOAT BUILDING

Plastic bottles
Plastic cups
DC motor kit (2-AA batteries, AA battery holder with leads, mini electric motor, propeller, wire pieces)
Balloons
Straws
Balsa wood pieces
Styrofoam
Plastic spoons
Baking soda
Vinegar
Rubber bands

Method

Fill the pool with water to create a racecourse.
Design and construct a boat to cross a pool of water as quickly as possible using the materials provided. Consider different power sources to propel the machine.
Race your boat!

Take It Back to Class

Assign pricing to different materials. Set a budget or challenge yourself to construct a boat for the cheapest price possible.
Which power source is most reliable? Can you make changes to your boat design to provide consistent power?