Testing should begin at 100 grams and be increased in 10 gram increments. Record the load that was supported before the structure failed. For example, the structure being tested held a load of 200 grams but failed under a 210 gram load. The student would record the 200 gram load. Share your design and results with other groups if you are involved in the Everest 2000 telecollaborative project.
Teachers can adjust the dimensions and mass of the structure to make it more challenging.
This will help to cut down waste and might make the project a bit more meaningful for the students.