Directions+for+Conference+Activity

Paper Cantilever Activity​
__**Teacher Instructions:**__ __**Points to remember:**__
 * __Materials:__**
 * 4 sheets of 8x11 paper for each student (recycled copy paper is good!)
 * small blocks (enough for each pair to have 3 or 4) of wood or another material that weighs 2 to 3 ounces per piece. These will be used to test the paper cantilever.
 * 1 sheet of labels per pair (sheet should have 24 to 30 labels).
 * 1) Please place students into pairs.
 * 2) Distribute materials.
 * 3) Directions will be given during the conference. They are as follows: Using only the paper and labels, create a cantilever that will support the weight of at least one block without bending at all as it hangs over the edge of a table. You may fold the paper.
 * 4) The students will be given 5 minutes to create their cantilever.
 * 5) Please choose 2 pairs of students to demonstrate their successful cantilevers. Choose 2 different designs if possible.
 * Folding makes the paper stronger.
 * Think about the gift box lid. (You'll see what we mean during the conference.)
 * When testing your cantilever, be sure not to let it bend. That will take away from its strength.