Catapult Engineering

Investigate physics using technology from medieval times! Build six sleek, updated models of catapults, trebuchets, and other medieval launchers. These classic siege machines from the middle ages also happen to be great tools for teaching physics, including lessons in force, energy, motion, and projectiles.

A catapult is a medieval ballistic device that uses mechanical rubber bands and counterweights to fling projectiles — in this case, foam balls — into the air. The 32-page, full-color manual has illustrated step-by-step instructions for building the models and conducting the experiments.

Bonus: Also includes folded cardboard blocks so you can build a pretend castle wall and see if you can knock it down.

• Build 6 functional models of catapults, crossbows, and other medieval siege apparati that launch foam balls and soft darts
• Learn mechanical physics with simple experiments that demonstrate topics like force, energy, motion, and projectiles.
• Durable plastic pieces can be reconfigured in a variety of ways; build models from the manual or create your own! Have fun with the included knock-down blocks
• Learn mechanical physics with simple experiments
• Discover the world of physics and projectiles

Ages 8 and up