Science Camp/ Family Science/ Physics/Physical Science: Launchers

 Launchers, catapults, trebuchets are fun!  They can be adapted for different aged students—even Physics.  We made catapults at VBS one year when we couldn’t rig a decent sling for David and Goliath.  No one complained.  There are loads of models for every budget.  

Launchers:

Here is a projectile launcher for high school and appropriate for Physics.

Teacher Geek sells this kit to make this launcher for different challenges.

Science Queen has this simple Rubber Band Launcher lab.

Frugal Fun has this Plastic Cup Rocket is made with a plastic cup and rubber bands.

Catapults:

Here is a basic, craft stick catapult.

Here is a fancier catapult from Frugal Fun.

This is a standard plastic spoon catapult.

Build this catapult with pencils.

Trebuchets and Mangonels

This site has a Mini Mangonel—type of catapult.

This mangonel model has detailed photos .

Oxford Science has this activity packet with background, lab sheets, and building plans for trebuchet with a throwing arm.

Another siege weapon is an onager.  Here is an onager build.

Here are plans for a backyard trebuchet.

Miscellaneous Launchers for Little People

Balloon Popper

Rocket Flinger

Stomp Rocket Launcher DIY