Bring a classic story to life by designing and building a stronghold for one of the Three Little Pigs. In this hands-on engineering workshop, students will use only straws, pipe cleaners, and paper to create a structure capable of protecting their piggy from the Big Bad Wolf’s powerful gale—without using sticky tape.
As they build, students will explore how shape, structure, materials, and construction techniques affect strength and stability. They will test their stronghold, observe how it responds to wind, and use what they discover to improve their design.
This workshop blends engineering, science, problem solving, and imaginative play in an engaging, accessible challenge. It encourages homeschool learners to experiment, persevere, and discover that even simple materials can become strong structures through thoughtful design.
Learning outcomes
Engineering and design
Follow a design process to imagine, build, test, and improve a structure for a specific purpose.Forces and structures
Explore how wind forces affect structures and how bracing, shape, and a stable base can improve strength.Materials and construction
Investigate the properties of paper, straws, and pipe cleaners, and discover effective ways to join and reinforce them without tape.Problem solving and critical thinking
Identify weaknesses, respond to challenges, and make informed changes based on test results.Creativity and innovation
Develop an original stronghold while working within a limited set of materials and design constraints.Persistence and resilience
Learn that unsuccessful tests are a valuable part of the design process and use feedback to try again.
This workshop is made possible through the support of Tablelands Regional Council.
