Build a No-Melt Snowman STEM Challenge
Reuse cardboard tubes and bottle caps to engineer a snowman that never melts—perfect for classrooms without fresh snow.
Why Try This Challenge?
Winter weather can cancel recess, but it doesn’t have to cancel hands-on engineering. This no-melt snowman builds spatial reasoning, introduces stability testing, and gives kids an outlet for storytelling. Because it uses recyclables, you can run the challenge more than once and tweak constraints every time.
- Practice iteration: plan, prototype, test, and improve.
- Reinforce measurement: track height and base diameter.
- Connect literacy: write a “profile” for the snowman after construction.
Materials Bin (Mostly Free)
- •Cardboard tubes or paper towel rolls
- •Scrap paper, egg cartons, or coffee pods for body segments
- •Masking tape, washi tape, or reusable adhesive dots
- •Recycled fabric strips or yarn for scarves
- •Bottle caps, buttons, loose LEGOs for eyes and buttons
- •Ruler or measuring tape
- •Spray bottle filled with water (for optional “melting” test)
Quick Prep Tips
- Pre-cut cardboard to similar widths for easier stacking.
- Keep hot glue optional—masking tape is safer for groups.
- Label bins “Head,” “Middle,” “Base,” so students think about mass distribution.
Five-Step Build Process
- Sketch: Draw a quick mock-up with three body sections. Label materials for each level.
- Measure: Cut or stack cardboard to reach the target height (start with 20–30 cm).
- Assemble: Tape or tie sections together. Encourage students to narrate why they chose certain connectors.
- Stability Test: Gently shake the desk, then mist the snowman with water to simulate a slushy day.
- Iterate: Record what fell apart, then reinforce joints or add a wider base.
Add STEM Prompts
Height Challenge
Can your snowman stand at least 30 cm tall without toppling?
Accessory Bonus
Add a removable hat or movable arms. How does it change the balance?
Weather Shield
Wrap a layer that resists moisture. Test by misting with the spray bottle.
Printable Extensions
Pair the build with ready-to-print pages:
- Fraction Fun – have kids color the portion of the snowman covered by scarves vs. buttons.
- Winter writing prompts – write a diary entry from the snowman’s perspective.
- Word search generator – build a “maker lab” vocabulary set for early finishers.
Reflection & Assessment
End the session with a quick gallery walk. Post reflection cards next to each snowman.
Family or Classroom Challenge
Split into teams and award ribbons for “Tallest Snowman,” “Most Eco-Friendly,” and “Best Story.” Share your creations in the guestbook so we can spotlight them on social media.