Late Medieval Europe – STEM Challenges & STEM Activities for the Classroom!

Hi teacher friends,

I’ve been busy creating a series of STEM projects for students who are studying Medieval Times & Middle Ages.. Next stop, Late Medieval Europe! 

Challenge 1: The Ballista Challenge! 

Medieval times were a violent period in history. New styles of weaponry and warfare were introduced during the Crusades.
Siege warfare tactics included cutting off the enemy’s supplies, water, and food. Invaders would surround the fort or castle, not allowing the inhabitants to escape.
The ballista was a weapon used in sieges designed to inflict massive damage to the opposing forces it was being used against. This weapon was made in a similar fashion to that of a
crossbow. The difference between the two weaponry is the incredible size difference between them.

Here’s the Ballista STEM Challenge: 

Using a list of supplies, STEM teams must design and build a ballista. The
ballista must be able to effectively shoot a marshmallow arrow into the air. The
goal of the STEM challenge is to propel a marshmallow arrow as far and
straight as possible… (**scroll down to the bottom of the post for listed materials and guides!!) 

Challenge 2: The Siege Tower!

These mobile structures of Medieval Times allowed the men
inside them to be protected from the enemy forces that they
were trying to invade. These towers, as the name implies were
usually very large structures with ladders going from one
story or level to the next. Siege towers were stocked with the
tools of engagement that would be needed for extended
conflicts.

Here’s the Siege Tower STEM Challenge: 

Using a list of supplies (see below), STEM teams must create a medieval siege tower. The tower must have at least 4 platforms and ladders for each one. It must
be on wheels and can effectively move forward and backward. The tower must have a drawbridge and a mechanism to let down and pull up the platform.

You might also be interested in the Medieval Times Complete Curriculum Bundle! Find it here!