STEM Camp

[uniKorn]

Hello all!
I am helping run a STEM camp and one activity we want to do is a tinfoil boat float, if you do not know what that is, please reference this [url="http://www-tc.pbskids.org/fetch/games/activities/pdf/FETCH_FloatMyBoat.pdf"]

We are trying to put a fun twist on the activity to make it more challenging for the kids that have already done it, if you have any ideas please let me know!
As a side note, the kids we are working with are in grades 5th-8th and we want to avoid using potentially hazardous material.
Thank you!

[Jon Stratis]

If you want to make it more challenging, require a 2-level boat and require some of the pennies (1/3?) be placed on the second level above the water line. Placing weight up high like that will require a little different build to ensure the boat doesn't tip over!

[SenorZ]

Already a fun and basic activity that allows for creativity. So you're off to a good start.

With out much more materials you could make an "advanced" boat challenge using cardboard and tape. Keep the size smallish still, but give the students set cargo (like action figures, toys, or other odd shaped items) they need to support. This may make the shape of the boat as important as the volume.

And if you've got some $ to spend, buy some small motors and battery packs and have the kids build propellors for the boats! https://youtu.be/78fvm0MFaOs

[ctt956]

You could put limits on the boats. Maybe change the size/amount of foil allowed. Set a minimum number of pennies that the boats must hold. You could try having different types/thickness of foil, or even different materials. Having different types of coins probably wouldn't be a bad idea; heavier coins could be worth more. There's a lot you could do with this!