Egg drop challenge

The Egg Drop Challenge is a fun and engaging STEM activity where participants design and build a contraption that can protect a raw egg from breaking when dropped from a certain height. The goal is to use creativity, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of physics to create a device that will prevent the egg from cracking upon impact.

Instructions:

1. Gather Materials:
   

   • Raw eggs (you may want to have extras in case of multiple attempts)

   • Assorted materials for building (e.g., cardboard, popsicle sticks, straws, rubber bands, foam, bubble wrap, tape)

   • Scissors

   • Ruler

   • Optional: Safety goggles and gloves (for participants' protection)

1. Explain the Challenge:
   

   • Introduce the Egg Drop Challenge to the participants and explain the objective: to design a contraption that can protect a raw egg from breaking when dropped from a specified height.

   • Discuss the importance of creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork in approaching the challenge.

1. Discuss Design Considerations:
   

   • Encourage participants to brainstorm and plan their designs before building.

   • Emphasize the need to consider factors such as shock absorption, cushioning, and structural integrity in their contraption design.

   • Discuss concepts such as potential energy, gravity, and forces that will come into play during the egg drop.

1. Design and Build:
   

   • Provide participants with the materials and tools they need to build their contraptions.

   • Encourage them to test different ideas, make adjustments, and iterate on their designs as they see fit.

   • Offer guidance and support as needed, but let them take the lead in the design and construction process.

1. Test and Evaluate:
   

   • Set up a designated drop zone (outdoors or indoors with appropriate precautions) with a predetermined height for the egg drop.

   • Allow each participant or team to take turns dropping their contraptions, one at a time.

   • Observe and record the results, noting whether the egg survives intact or cracks upon impact.

   • Encourage participants to evaluate their designs and discuss what worked well and what could be improved.

1. Reflect and Iterate:
   

   • Facilitate a discussion or reflection session where participants can share their experiences and lessons learned.

   • Encourage them to think about possible modifications or improvements to their designs if they were to do the challenge again.

Remember to prioritize safety during the Egg Drop Challenge. Ensure participants follow safety guidelines and provide appropriate supervision when using tools or conducting the drop test.