Giant Tetrahedron Challenge
KS2 and 3 Maths and Construction Activity
What year group(s) is it suitable for? Key Stage 2-5
How many students can take part? Up to 60 students
How long does the workshop last? This is a morning-long workshop running between the start of the day and the school's lunchtime.
How much space do we need? Use of the school hall or a similar space is required. The tetrahedron will not fit in a classroom space. In warmer months, it is possible to run part of the challenge outdoors.
Any other requirements? Access to display equipment for presentation
After demonstration and discussion of the important structural properties of triangles, students work in small groups to create models of tetrahedrons using sticks and elastic bands. Teams are challenged to use mathematical thinking to construct larger versions by joining their models with other groups'.
After sucessfully completing the models, students are grouped into two big teams and each team is challenged to build a giant tetrahedron using plastic tubing and bands.
The completed structures are about four metres tall and light enough for three students to lift. Students learn a lot about modern engineering techniques, teamworking, communication and collaboration skills.
What teachers and students are saying:
"Sam was great with the children. Thank you, they learnt so much and really enjoyed it."
"Students commented on enjoying the competition element. They loved the fact they were learning in a practical context."
"I felt the workshop ran smoothly and was great fun. It was wonderful seeing such great teamwork with the children."
"All the children thoroughly enjoyed the workshop."
"As always, a fantastic workshop that the girls thoroughly enjoy. Exceedingly well delivered; exciting; and great communication throughout."
"competitive, team work, fun, brilliant, hard, fantastic, loud, creative, excellent, awesome, intriguing, challenging, amazing, joyful, interesting, exciting!"
"My class thoroughly engaged with the activities and learned a lot!"
"Fantastic workshop as always, Sam is a great leader and the students loved it"