Italy High School

Introduction

Your special effects studio has just learned of a competing contract for a new movie now in production to construct a working trebuchet for a medieval battle scene.  The project that launches a safe object for the longest distance wins the contract.

Task

You will create a working model of a trebuchet that launches a safe object for the longest distance and include a research report to the movie’s executive producer.  There may be up to 3 people on the design team.

Process

1. Use the Big 6 research method to help in this project.

2. Brainstorm (write down) a list of sources where you might find information on trebuchets, catapults, counterweights, torque, and lever arms.

3. Get acquainted with some historic trebuchets and historic counterweight trebuchets here.

4. Find out how trebuchets work here.

5. Learn about trebuchet triggers here.

6. For an explanation of how torque and lever arms work, go here.

7. Watch a slide show of how NOVA built a giant trebuchet. Scroll down and click next for each slide and obtain some tips on getting the most distance.

8. Submit a sketch of your trebuchet design.

9. Then with the knowledge you’ve gathered, construct a working trebuchet model. No kits are allowed.  Trebuchets must be original.

10. You will type a report of your research to include:

-a brief discussion of the applicable physics principles

-the procedure you used to build your trebuchet

-a list of materials

-a labeled drawing of your trebuchet

-the procedure you used to test your trebuchet

-an analysis of any changes you made to maximize your trebuchet’s efficiency

11. Your trebuchet will compete in a contest with other trebuchets to see which one launches a safe object for the longest distance.

12. You will also submit an analysis/self evaluation on how well you think you did on this project.  Include:

--What did I do right?

--What did I do wrong?

--What would I change if I could?

--How could I make the project better?

Evaluation

The working trebuchet model is worth 60 points.  The research report is worth 30 points.  The trebuchet that has the best efficiency will get 10 points and 2 points down from there.  Efficiency will be tested with the following equation: E=(m)(d)/l

            m=mass of object thrown

            d=distance thrown

            l=length of trebuchet’s arm

Completed project is due April 5.  NO late projects will be accepted!

Conclusion

At the end of this project you will become more acquainted with counterweights, torque, and lever arms.  Perhaps we’ll see you in the movies!

Credits

Clip art courtesy of Cathares.org.