Primary Straw Bridge STEM Challenge

Primary Straw Bridge STEM Challenge

Challenge primary learners to explore bridge design, support, and strength with this hands-on Straw Bridge STEM Challenge. Learners build a bridge that spans a 6-inch gap, test how many coins it can hold, improve one part of the design, and compare results. This practical KS1 STEM activity combines hands-on engineering, testing, and measurement.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• 3-page STEM activity set: Cover Page, Instructions Page, Activity Page
• Built-in table or recording boxes for comparing results
• Sketch, notes, or observation space for student thinking
• Clear, step-by-step directions for classroom use
• ZIP file with printable PDF resources

SKILLS DEVELOPED:
• Engineering design process
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Testing and improving designs
• Recording and comparing results
• Structure and support STEM learning

HOW IT WORKS:
Learners use straws and tape to construct a bridge that spans a 6-inch gap between two books. They add coins one at a time to test how many coins the bridge can hold and record the result. Learners then modify one aspect of the bridge design, carry out a second test, and compare both results.

The recording structure provides space for planning, sketches, building notes, and coin totals, helping learners clearly connect design decisions with bridge performance. The activity encourages learners to investigate how supports, trusses, and bridge shape affect strength.

The challenge naturally scales from simple building and testing to deeper investigation, comparison, and explanation of results.

LEARNING CONCEPTS:
• Structure and stability
• Supports and trusses
• Weight distribution and load
• Testing and improving designs
• Comparing results

Curriculum Links: Supports early science and design and technology learning related to structures, forces, support, testing, and simple engineering concepts.

STEM VOCABULARY:
bridge, support, truss, strength, load, weight, test, design, improve

DIFFERENTIATION:
Suitable for KS1 learners, with natural extension opportunities for KS2 through deeper testing, comparison, and explanation of results.

The activity scales naturally from simple hands-on exploration to more detailed investigation and reasoning.

Supports EAL learners through simple language, visual structure, and hands-on tasks.

PRINTING & PREP:
• Print pages single-sided
• Provide straws, tape, coins, a ruler, two books, and scissors
• Use a stable testing surface
• Set up a clear testing area
• Use scissors carefully. Keep coins and small pieces away from young children.

AGE RANGE:
Designed for KS1 learners (ages 5–7), with flexible extension opportunities for KS2. Supports EAL learners with simple language and hands-on tasks.

FILE DETAILS:
ZIP file containing PDF resources. Instant digital download. No physical item supplied.

TERMS OF USE:
For personal and single-classroom use only. Not for resale, redistribution, or commercial use.