Did anyone try this activity for U1L1? If so, how many sheets of paper did you use per team per trial? 20 seems excessive
I used 20 but it was too much. Next time I teach it I’ll give them 20 total so 10 for each tower.
I’ve done this activity before. I’ve used 20 and some teams use them all. Other teams definitely don’t. I’m sure you could cut it down and see how it goes. I try to use recycled paper, though, so I’m not wasting clean paper.
Mike
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Yes, the instructions say 20 total (10 per trial), which still seem excessive. Going to try to use recycled paper as much as possible.
The challenge could be less is more so how few pieces can they use, maybe?
I think I have a ream of printer paper that’s been in my garage for over 10 years so it may have yellowed. Think I’ll use it. It probably will be more fun for the students if they have “enough” sheets to play with 
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If you use less the design options are restricted greatly. I did and looking back I regret it! They didnt have a lot of options and most towers were the same.
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I have given 20 to start and an additional 10 for round 2. Some use them all and some use far fewer. Depends on the design and their ingenuity. I tell them to look around and see what others are doing too. Have had several towers almost reach the ceiling from the top of the table (9’ ceilings). Any way you do it, you give them the option to use their creativity.
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I am wondering - did you give them tape too?
I did not give them tape. That kind of defeats the purpose. If you are differentiating, however, it may be helpful.
I used 3 sheets of paper per group for the first round, and 3 sheets for the second, for a total of 6 sheets per group for both rounds. I find that this constraint leads to creative problem solving.
I’ve come to like this challenge better with my 7th graders. The formula to calculate the total points makes them think a bit more. Needs more materials - 30 pieces of paper & a roll of masking tape for each group. And some cans of beans for testing. Tallest Paper Tower Challenge | Science Project
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