Spatial Requirements: Classroom with moderate space required
Activity Type: Movement/group|
Grades: 3-12
Group Size: 4 or more
Time: 20-30 minutes

Introduction: This activity emphasizes the importance of plugging in to utilize the positive support systems around us.

Materials: 

• 1 foot of tape (any kind) per team of 4
• 20 full pieces of spaghetti per team of 4
• 1 1-inch cube of clay per team of 4
• 1 8×11 sheet of cardstock per team of 4
• Several pennies for each team of 4
• 1 yardstick or tape measure to measure the structure
• 1 table or desk for each team of 4 (to work with their materials)

Activity:  

Divide the group into teams of four and distribute the materials. Instruct the teams that the goal of this activity is to use the materials provided to build the tallest structure able to support the most pennies.  The cardstock paper will be used as a platform for holding the pennies. They will receive a point for each inch of height and a point per penny.  Give the team a time limit (we recommend 10 to 15 minutes), then measure the heights and have the teams stack the pennies. The team with the most total points wins.  

Processing the Experience:

• Why did the winning structure win?
• What did your team focus on while you were building?
• How was the support structure important in the game?
• Why are positive support systems important in life?
• Who are your positive support systems?  
• How can you tell if your friends are a positive support?
• What can you do to be a more positive support to the people around you?