Ideas for home › The paper bridge challenge

The paper bridge challenge

Time: 20 minutes · Age: From age 6

A simple engineering challenge that works at any age and always ends in a rematch.

What you need

• A4 paper
• Two stacks of books of equal height
• Coins

Steps

1. Set the stacks about a hand's width apart.
2. Lay a flat sheet across and count how many coins it holds.
3. Fold a new sheet into small pleats, like a fan.
4. Lay it across and count again.
5. Each design a bridge, and see whose holds more.

Why is it stronger?

The folds make the paper harder to bend. Same sheet, stronger shape. It's the idea behind corrugated cardboard.

Want to try it with the team? See workshops ›