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An index card engineering unit

SkyscraperLab

20 index cards. One heavy book. Zero tape. How tall can you build?

  • 14 floors to climb
  • 6 card builds
  • 1 big rematch

The Big Challenge

Build the tallest tower you can using only 20 index cards.

Then comes the test. Your teacher sets the test book on top. If your tower holds it for a 10 second count, it counts!

You can fold, roll, cut slots and lock cards together. You cannot use tape or glue. Every trick has to come from smart design.

You will build it twice. Once before any lessons, and once after you learn the secrets of real engineers. Can you beat your own tower?

2 The Blind Challenge 13 The Rematch

Your supplies

  • 20 index cards
  • Scissors
  • A clear, flat desk
  • A ruler
  • The test book (teacher's choice)
No tapeNo glue. Just cards and brains.

The Climb

Ride up one floor at a time. Every floor gives you a secret you will need for the rematch.

  • Build with cards
  • Learn the science
  • Plan it
  • Look back