This is very simple STEM Challenge It's a great way to discover why arches are such an important structural form. Bridges often have arches to make them stronger and more stable. The shape of the arch allows any load on the bridge to be distributed outward along the curve of the arch.
Pont du Gard It is a brilliant example of a bridge built with arches.
Arch Bridge STEM Challenge
You will need
Books
Paper
Paper clips or other small objects
Instructions
Place two stacks of books of the same height with a small space between them.
Place a sheet of paper on top to make a bridge.
Carefully place the clips on top until the bridge collapses.
Record the number of paper clips added before the bridge collapsed.
Remove all the paper clips and fold the same piece of paper into an arch shape between the stacks of books.
Add paper clips again until the bridge breaks.
Can you add more clips to the arch shape or flat bridge?
It can be seen that the arch shape tolerates many more clips before collapsing than the unsupported flat bridge.
STEM Challenge Worksheet Build a Bridge
More bridge building ideas for kids
Teach Beside Me has a brilliant Popsicle stick bridge.
Experiment Different types of paper bridges.
Build and test a Eggshell BridgeIt might be stronger than you think!
Last updated on April 21, 2023 by Emma Vanstone
