Straw Tower STEM Challenge | Engineering Design | Simple Materials | KS1 & KS2

A hands-on STEM challenge where learners design, build, test, and improve a straw tower while exploring bracing, supports, and engineering problem-solving. A simple STEM challenge using straws and everyday materials. Low-prep and ideal for primary classrooms, home learning, STEM tubs, or engineering stations.

ENGINEERING FOCUS:
Bracing & Supports

WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• 3-page STEM Challenge set: Cover Page, Instructions Page, Activity Page
• 9-Point Engineering Graph for comparing an initial design and an improved design (Inclu
• Clear directions for real classrooms
• Kid-friendly layout for independent exploration
• Printable PDF (A4/Letter compatible)

SKILLS DEVELOPED:
• Engineering design process
• Planning and designing a tower
• Testing and improving designs
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Recording observations using a structured 9-Point Engineering Graph

HOW IT WORKS:
Learners build a freestanding straw tower, test and measure its height, and record their observations. They then change one support or brace, test again, and compare the results. Learners sketch their designs, identify what changed, and compare performance using the 9-Point Engineering Graph.

LEARNING CONCEPTS:
• Bracing and structural supports
• Height and stability
• Testing and improving designs
• Engineering through iteration

Curriculum Links: Supports early engineering design, forces and motion, observation skills, and simple investigations involving structures, stability, and design improvement.

STEM Vocabulary: brace, support, tower, height, stability, structure, design, engineer, test, improve

DIFFERENTIATION:
Works well for KS1 learners and naturally extends for KS2 through more complex tower designs.

TEACHER BENEFITS:
• Clear instructions
• Minimal prep with easy-to-source materials
• Works for small groups, centres, early finishers, or whole-class use
• Flexible materials allow easy adaptation

AGE RANGE:
Suitable for ages 5–11 (Primary). Younger learners can participate with support.
Aligned for KS1 learners, with natural extension options for KS2.

PERFECT FOR:
• STEM centres
• Classroom STEM tubs
• Early finishers
• Makerspace stations
• Home learning
• Family STEM nights

FILE DETAILS:
• PDF format (non-editable)
• Instant digital download
• No physical item shipped

Looking for more engineering concepts through tower building?
Explore the Paper Tower STEM Challenges Bundle K–2 and investigate additional engineering concepts including:
• Shapes
• Columns
• Tubes & Connections
Each challenge introduces a different engineering focus while following the same Build • Test • Improve process.

Want a full year of low-prep engineering challenges?
Click here to grab the Complete K–2 STEM Engineering Curriculum Bundle and save big!

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