Parking for Halloween at Dynamic Earth is limited, please consider taking our free shuttle (select days only).

PLEASE NOTE: Window replacement is underway at the Science North ramp until early fall 2026. The ramp remains open with covered walkways in place for your safety.

Structures & Mechanisms

structures and mechanisms

Centre of Gravity!

Investigate how the centre of gravity of a structure affects the structure’s stability and balance, then test your skills at stacking a dramatic overhang that seems to defy gravity.


MATERIALS

  • At least four identical rectangular stackable objects. The size of the object doesn’t matter as long as all of your chosen objects are the same size and type.
    • Examples: Jenga blocks, a deck of cards, DVD cases, books, granola bars.

DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS


Ergonomic Structures!

Can you create a chair that can hold a load using only paper and tape? Explore what makes a chair strong and stable enough to sit on, and apply learning about what elements lend support, strength, and stability to structures.


MATERIALS

  • Paper (8.5 x 11” office paper is fine – you can recycle scrap paper!)
  • Scotch or masking tape
  • Scissors
  • Something to serve as a load to test your structure. It can be a small / medium toy or stuffed animal, or it can be a small can of food.

DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS

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