Introduction

Have you ever had to build a tower made of spaghetti to hold a marshmallow in the air? Most likely not, however, this challenge was given to HONS 3391 students for a group building exercise. We explored how teamwork, innovation,  problem-solving comes together and are used similarly to tackle issues or challenges. The activity we did in class emphasized the importance of teamwork, collaboration, communication, adaptability, and creativity. As well as demonstrating how creative solutions and ideas arises from trial and error. 

Instructions

The goal for the marshmallow challenge was to build the tallest freestanding structure with minimal equipment and a total of 18 minutes. The class slipped into four groups, each with 3 or 4 people. Each group was given 20 spaghetti sticks, one yard tape, one yard stong, one marshmallows, and one pair of scissors. 

The instructions were simple, the groups were to only use the materials given to them and build the free standing structure. The group could only use the table, and they had to be done within the 18 minute time limit. 

One of the rules for the challenge was the marshmallow couldn't be cut or missing pieces. Additionally, in order for the measurement to be taken, the structure could not have any people touching it once the 18 minute timeframe was over. 

This was a challenging task but creativity was sparking through! 

Creative Processes

Each group used a different approach to conquer the challenge given to them. Let’s take a closer look at the methods devised by the four groups:

Group 1:

This group’s main focus was to ensure the building of a stable, standing structure. Each piece of spaghetti was carefully taped to another to make 10 bundles of two spaghetti strands. This reinforced the strength of the individual strands to prevent breaking. Bundles of spaghetti sticks were then taped together to hold up the marshmallow pierced by two spaghetti. This group finished building 5 minutes before the timer was up. Ultimately, they decided to play it safe and leave the structure as it was. 

Outcome: 15 cm

Group 2: 

On the other hand, this group decided to tape two spaghetti sticks together at the end–not to reinforce each stick–but instead double their length. Tying the sticks together at the top, a “teepee” shape was formed. Although this build was stable, this group put more reinforcement into the bottom with extra spaghetti sticks. This strategy was to ensure it would hold the weight of a marshmallow. In the last two minutes of the challenge, the marshmallow was stabbed onto a spaghetti stick and pushed through the center of the bundle of sticks.

Outcome: 19.3 cm

Group 3: 

This group started with a couple of ideas in mind but after trying to decide and focus on the best option for building the structure, they decided to tape three spaghetti sticks to the table by using three pieces of tape. The structure was given a shape of the triangle base. To make it as long as possible, the group decided to tape 2 sticks together and then connect the top together. Using a piece of tape, the sticks were reinforced by sticking more pieces of spaghetti sticks and tape together.  The marshmallow was placed on top of the structure, and yarn was taped from the top, pulled back, and secured to the table to help stabilize it. This group used all their time, and the structure managed to stand unsupported for a moment. However, after a few seconds, the structure collapsed. 

Outcome: 0cm

Group 4:

Group 4 brainstormed a few ideas before actually beginning to build the structure. The group knew that they at least needed a strong base in order for the structure to stand. They decided to do a triangle shape base since the triangle is known to be the most stable. Afterwards, at each corner of the triangle they place a spaghetti noodle straight up and then place another triangle shape on top of the three spaghetti noodles standing straight up. To prevent the structure from moving, they used the yarn to connect a piece of spaghetti from the side of the structure and tape the other end to the table. The structure was free standing, but once they realized that time was running out and they hadn't placed the marshmallow on top they began to panic and rush. Once they placed the marshmallow on top of the spaghetti tower, the structure began to fall down slowly. They did not think about the weight of the marshmallow.

Outcome: 0cm

Takeaways

Although each group was given the same task, resources, and time to solve the problem, the interpretation and process of completing the task varied widely. Some groups decided to play the game safely, looking for stability and completion. Other groups went for riskier builds, with the idea of “high risk = high reward” motivating their decisions. In the end, the successful groups had gone through a process of testing and readjusting plans throughout the challenge to ensure there would be a standing structure. Being flexible in this stressful situation proved to be the biggest asset.