Answer: On Target
Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech | + Expand Image
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Overview
In this challenge, kids modify a paper cup so it can zip down a line and drop a marble onto a target. Students will follow the engineering design process to modify a cup to carry a marble down a zip line; attach a string to tip the cup; test their cup by sliding it down the zip line, releasing the marble, and trying to hit a target on the floor; and improve their system based on testing results.First, set up a zip line. Tie 6 feet (1.8 m) of the smooth line to two objects
(e.g., two chairs or a table and chair). Make sure it’s stretched tight and that
one end is about 20 inches (50 cm) below the other.
2. Next, figure out how to modify the cup to carry the marble down the zip line.
Will it travel inside the cup? Outside the cup on a platform? Underneath?
3. Then, add a remote release. Decide how you will tip the cup at just the right
instant to launch the marble toward the target.
4. Finally, clip the cup to the zip line. Figure out how to hook the cup onto the
zip line so it slides easily
Step-by-step explanation: