Newspaper Launcher Engineering Challenge
A design challenge with limited materials: each group uses six sheets of newspaper and masking tape to build a device that launches a soft ball with two or more people, then tests it in a target zone. Students work on creativity, throwing, and improving through trial and error.
How to play
- Six groups of 4, each with 6 sheets of newspaper, 3 ft of masking tape, and a soft ball. Test zone: a coned line and hoops at 15, 30, and 50 ft worth 1, 3, and 5 points (2 min).
- Build (7 min): at least two people operate the device and the ball never leaves straight from a hand (two-person sling, paper blanket, tube, scoop).
- Test 1 (4 min): groups take turns with three launches; balls are retrieved at a run only after the zone-clear signal.
- Improve (3 min): the group repairs or redesigns its device with whatever material it has left.
- Tests 2 and 3 (6 min): three launches per round, rotating operators; add up the points.
- Show and tell (4 min): each group shows its design and explains what changed and why it worked better or worse.
Rules
- Nobody enters the target zone until the teacher signals it is clear.
- All groups launch from the same line in the same direction.
- Only the equipment handed out may be used; no extra objects.
Variations
Easier
Twelve sheets, unlimited tape, and targets at 10, 20, and 30 ft.
Standard
Six sheets, 3 ft of tape, and targets at 15, 30, and 50 ft.
Harder
Four sheets, three people must operate the device, and the target is a 20-inch hoop at 40 ft.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: holds the device from a fixed spot or designs the mechanism; a teammate retrieves.
- Hearing impairment: the zone-clear signal is also given by raising a colored cone.
- Fitness level: rotate retrieval, walking for those who need it.
Learning goals
- Design and build a launching tool as a group.
- Adjust throwing force and direction based on results.
- Value everyone's ideas and improve by learning from mistakes.
Equipment for a class of 25
- newspaper sheets: 36
- masking tape rolls: 6
- soft balls: 6
- hoops: 6
- cones: 6
Teacher tip
Give a 4-minute warning so groups test early. A two-person sling from a strip folded in thirds usually works best.
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