Primary Mini Marshmallow Bridge STEM Challenge

PrimaryMini Marshmallow Bridge STEM Challenge
A hands‑on STEM challenge where learners design, build, test, and improve a marshmallow bridge to explore how structures hold weight. Learners investigate stability, supports, and simple engineering ideas while creating bridges that can hold increasing amounts of weight.
The activity encourages curiosity, problem‑solving, and thoughtful testing as learners see how structure, support placement, and connections affect how strong a bridge can be.
Learners build a bridge using marshmallows and toothpicks, test how much weight it can hold, and observe what happens when one element of the design is changed. This low‑prep activity works well for primary classrooms, STEM stations, or small‑group activities, and supports both independent and guided exploration.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• 3‑page STEM Challenge set: Cover Page, Instructions Page, Activity Page
• Built‑in testing table for recording two design results
• Sketch and notes section for planning and reflection
• Clear, step‑by‑step directions for classroom use
• Printable PDF (A4/Letter compatible)

SKILLS DEVELOPED:
• Engineering design process
• Predicting and testing ideas
• Observing strength and stability
• Comparing design changes
• Recording simple results

HOW IT WORKS:
Learners build one version of their bridge, test how much weight it can hold, and record their results.
Next, they change one part of the design—such as the number of supports or connection points—and test again. They sketch both designs, note their changes, and compare results using the activity page.
The open layout supports drawings and simple observations, while the testing structure helps learners clearly compare outcomes.
The challenge scales naturally: younger learners explore basic building and stability, while older learners experiment with supports, weight distribution, and structure to improve strength.

LEARNING CONCEPTS:
• Strength and stability
• Supports and structure
• Weight and load
• Testing and improving designs
Curriculum Links: Supports early science and design and technology learning related to structures, materials, and simple engineering concepts.

STEM VOCABULARY:
bridge, support, structure, balance, weight, test, design, improve

DIFFERENTIATION:
Suitable for KS1 learners and extends naturally for KS2 through deeper investigation and comparison.

PRINTING & PREP:
• Print pages single‑sided
• Provide marshmallows, toothpicks, and small objects for testing weight (e.g. counters or small books)
• Ensure a stable surface for testing
• Adult supervision recommended when using toothpicks

AGE RANGE:
Suitable for ages 5–11 (Primary)
Aligned for KS1 learners with natural extension opportunities for KS2
Supports EAL learners through simple language and hands‑on learning

FILE DETAILS:
PDF format (non‑editable). Instant digital download.

TERMS OF USE:
This resource is for personal and single classroom use only. It may not be shared, distributed, or used commercially.