LESSON DESCRIPTION:
Students learn the amazing structural strength of columns are they use one piece of 8.5 by 11 inch paper to see how many books they can support at least 1 inch off of the table. With one sheet of ordinary paper, the current Rock-It Science record is 152 pounds!

TIME REQUIRED: 30-60 Minutes

OBJECTIVES:
Students will learn what is meant my compression and how weak materials can hold relatively heavy compression loads.

FACILITIES REQUIREMENTS:
Inside or outside. Requires table space.

SAFETY:
Students will require supervision and assistance in stacking the books to prevent the books from inadvertently falling on someone (some stacks of books have been in excess of 6 feet high).

CALIFORNIA SCIENCE STANDARDS ALIGNMENT

Kindergarden: 1st Grade: 2nd Grade: 3rd Grade: 4rth Grade:   5th Grade: 6th Grade: