Make a mini catapult

Catapults were used in the past, especially in the middle ages. In this activity you will learn how to make your own mini catapult!

The first thing that you need to do is collect 5 lolly sticks. Stack them on top of each other. You will then need 2 elastic bands. Tie one elastic band around each end of the stack to keep them together.

Take 2 more lolly sticks and tie an elastic band around one end.

Take your stack of lolly sticks and push them between the two lolly sticks to make a cross. 

Use another elastic band to keep the  lolly sticks in place.

Get a plastic milk bottle top and stick it to the end of the lolly stick using the double sided tape.

You are now ready to test your catapult! The video tutorial for this activity is available on the Surrey Libraries Facebook page.

So now that you know how to make a basic catapult why don't you try out a few different things...

• If you fire different things do they travel different distances? Why not try a ball made of paper, a cotton wall ball and a ping pong ball and see what happens
• If you change the number of lolly sticks in your wedge what happens?
• What happens if you move where you stick your milk bottle top?

Why not see how far you can fire your catapult! 

Remember DO NOT fire your catapult at anyone!!

Watch my instruction film on the Surrey Libraries Facebook Page or on the Surrey Libraries YouTube Channel. 

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