That's the Way the Cookie Crumbles: High School Students Engineer Earthquake Proof Gingerbread Houses

Can a gingerbread house survive an earthquake? This sweet lab challenged students to design and test structures that could withstand the shake of a DIY earthquake simulator. Along the way, students explored stress, strain and fracture points, discovering how ingredient choices like flour, sugar, and molasses influence material strength. Students made predictions about engineering stresses, tested their designs, and shared findings through engaging poster presentations. From testing recipes to witnessing shake-table failures, students were glued to their seats, proving that food and Physics make an irresistible combination. Join this talk for tips on blending waves, forces, and creative experimental design into your classroom - no baking required.