The document provides instructions for a classroom activity where students must build the tallest structure possible using only 5 pieces of blank paper and masking tape within 10 minutes. It defines what a structure is and discusses the concepts of structural strength, stability, and the three basic structural forms: solid/mass, frame, and shell structures. A hybrid structure is noted as a combination of two or more forms.

1. Structures
& Forces
UNIT D

2. Structural
Forms

3. Building a Structure
Problem: Build the tallest possible structure using only the materials provided.
Materials: 5 pieces of blank paper and 0.5m masking tape
Rules:
1. The structure must be self-supporting.
2. No other materials can be used.
3. A sketch of the structure must be provided with names on it to be handed in (use paper from
your binder).
4. You may work with a partner.
YOU HAVE 10 MINUTES TO COMPLETE THIS

4. Structures
Structure: is any object that provides support.
Ex: The chair you're sitting on.
The desk you write on.
A bus you ride in.
The pencil you write with.

5. Structures
Structural strength: how much
force/load a structure can withstand
without failing
Structural stability: how well a
structure can stay standing when
forces are applied to it

6. Structures
There are 3 basic structural forms:
1) Solid/Mass Structure: Formed from
solid pieces of strong ​material. Usually
the strongest structure but
the ​heaviest to move.

7. Structures
2) Frame Structure:
◦ Made of rigid parts attached together
◦ Lighter than solid structures
◦ 2D or 3D

8. Structures
3) Shell Structure:
◦ Solid outer surface (which may be
rounded) with hollow inside
◦ Lighter than solid structures but
stronger than frame structures
◦ A curved outer surface is stronger
because the load is equally distributed

9. Structures
4) Hybrid/Combination Structure:
are a combination of two or more
structural forms.

10. Functions
of
Structures