How to Build a Plastic Straw Skyscraper That Will Amaze Everyone

What is Plastic Straw Skyscraper?

In this activity, participants are divided into teams and are tasked with building the tallest structure they can using only plastic straws and tape. Each team is given a limited amount of time and materials to complete the construction. The objective is to encourage teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way. The team with the tallest skyscraper at the end wins!

Materials needed for Plastic Straw Skyscraper

• 10 Newspapers (Quantity depends on the number of participants)
• 1 Tape (Per team)

How to play Plastic Straw Skyscraper

• Divide participants into teams: Form teams of equal size, ensuring each team has access to an ample supply of plastic straws and tape.
• Explain the rules and objectives: Clearly explain that the goal is to construct the tallest building possible using only the provided materials. Set a time limit and specify any height or stability restrictions, if desired.
• Begin the construction: Let the teams start building their structures, encouraging communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving throughout the process.
• Monitor progress and time: Keep an eye on the teams' progress, offering guidance and assistance as needed. Ensure the activity stays within the designated time frame.
• End the construction phase: Announce when the time is up, and instruct the teams to stop building. Ask each team to step away from their structure.
• Measure and declare a winner: Using a measuring tape or ruler, measure the height of each structure. Declare the team with the tallest skyscraper as the winner.

Benefits of Plastic Straw Skyscraper

Team building activities are far more than just fun and games. They pack a punch when it comes to the range of benefits they can deliver. Some of the benefits of Plastic Straw Skyscraper include:

• Promotes teamwork: Encourages collaboration and communication among team members.
• Boosts creativity: Allows participants to think creatively and come up with unique design ideas.
• Develops problem-solving skills: Challenges teams to overcome obstacles and find innovative solutions.
• Fosters healthy competition: Creates a fun and competitive environment where teams strive to build the tallest structure.

Why we like Plastic Straw Skyscraper

We love this activity because it promotes collaboration, stimulates creativity, and challenges participants to think outside the box.

Reflection questions for Plastic Straw Skyscraper

Reflection questions are a great way to help your team process their experience after playing Plastic Straw Skyscraper.

1. What were the key challenges your team faced during the construction? This question helps identify obstacles and encourages reflection on problem-solving strategies.
2. Describe the most successful aspect of your team's skyscraper. Allows teams to reflect on their strengths and evaluate their strategies.
3. How did your team manage to work together effectively? Promotes discussion on teamwork dynamics and highlights successful collaboration.

Which skills does Plastic Straw Skyscraper build?

• Teamwork - Teamwork skills are crucial for icebreakers and team building because they foster effective communication, encourage collaboration, and promote a sense of unity among team members, leading to better problem-solving and increased productivity.
• Creativity - Creativity skills can greatly enhance icebreakers and team building by allowing participants to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions and ideas. This promotes collaboration, boosts morale, and fosters a positive and innovative environment within a team.
• Problem-solving - Problem-solving skills are essential for icebreakers and team building as they help break down barriers, foster creativity, and encourage collaboration, resulting in stronger relationships and more effective problem-solving within the team.