Physics classes are getting hands-on experience with science by constructing table-top trebuchets as a class project.

The assignment was to build a small trebuchet capable of launching either a ping-pong ball or a tennis ball.

With a few size requirements and a list of mandatory calculations, the students had about two weeks to complete the project.

Mr. Kelly Christian, physics teacher, said the goal of the project was to build an operational trebuchet that could be used to collect data.

“Building the trebuchet is an engineering project that allows students to apply the concepts learned in the class to the real world,” Christian said.

Senior Teagan MacDonald said the project has offered a nice break from traditional classwork.

“It’s an interesting project,” MacDonald said.  “I like how there is a little competition in our class.  It is the talk around the school.”

In addition to the trebuchet itself, students learned about the history of the device.

Senior Elijah Madar said that it is interesting learning about how technologically advanced medieval warfare was.

“By making trebuchets, they used gravity to their advantage,” Madar said.  “It was a huge step in siege warfare.”

The first day of launching was March 2, but the project will continue into next week.

The trebuchets are going to be graded on their accuracy, or how straight they launch.

“I am not sure who will launch the farthest,” MacDonald said. “A lot of people have put a lot of work into it.  It will be an interesting day when we launch them.”

Gallery • 4 Photos

IMAGE / Dylan Brewer

"Big Al" is constructed with aluminum extrusions and rivets. The catapult had a 7.5 kg counterweight.