Elastic energy in Year 6 Science

Recently our class constructed paddlepop catapults, experimenting with elastic energy. We thoroughly enjoyed testing out our catapults with marshmallows. We hope you enjoy our reflections. 

During our Science lesson, we conducted an experiment concerning elastic energy. We had to construct a catapult that would project an item a long distance. A challenging aspect of this task was testing the elasticity and flexibility of the catapult as well as finding the correct level of tension prior to the final experiment. We were presented with the opportunity to oppose our classmates in some friendly competition testing whose catapult could project a marshmallow the furthest. Whilst we each had the same supportive structure of the catapult, it was a common quality of the catapults able to project the marshmallow the furthest had a balanced level of tension and flexibility both of which strengthened the rubber bands projection rate. Then, we answered questions by thinking theoretically to support our results.This task has deepened my understanding of the potential energy conversion into elastic energy and then kinetic (movement) energy.

Emilia Srdanovic

During class today we had a lot of fun doing a prac lesson on elastic energy. We had to create a Pyramid catapult using tape, a wooden dowel, and popsicle sticks. After carefully watching the instructions and completing our catapults, we went outside to have a competition to see who could launch their marshmallow the furthest – A great way to end the lesson!

Alicia Bouantoun 

Ann Milicic
Year 6 Teacher