Roof-Raising Activity Carries Weight
For two decades, Jim Craddock’s seventh-grade math students have been “raisin’ the roof” – along with a teacher or two.
The activity, called Raisin’ the Roof, involves students building a three-dimensional structure out of only toothpicks and a candy source.
“In undertaking this activity, the two main concepts that I am attempting to develop is an understanding of constructing a structure that must be cubic in shape. Secondly, that the use of triangles in their construction affords them the best opportunity for success,” explained Mr. Craddock.
A class competition ensues and the student structures must meet the minimum weight requirement of two textbooks. Students then advance to 16-pound weights, a cinder block, and finally, a student volunteer.
The final stage of the competition was held recently during a Middle School Assembly. The remaining “survivors” were put to the test of supporting the weight of a teacher.
According to Mr. Craddock, there have always been a project or two over the years that have been able to support this enormous amount of weight. This year, that "enormous amount of weight" belonged to Mr. Craddock and the projects belonged to students Isabella Kaplan and Mia Brandfon.
“Due to its popularity, I believe that I will continue to make this activity a part of my curriculum in future years,” he maintained.
The activity, called Raisin’ the Roof, involves students building a three-dimensional structure out of only toothpicks and a candy source.
“In undertaking this activity, the two main concepts that I am attempting to develop is an understanding of constructing a structure that must be cubic in shape. Secondly, that the use of triangles in their construction affords them the best opportunity for success,” explained Mr. Craddock.
A class competition ensues and the student structures must meet the minimum weight requirement of two textbooks. Students then advance to 16-pound weights, a cinder block, and finally, a student volunteer.
The final stage of the competition was held recently during a Middle School Assembly. The remaining “survivors” were put to the test of supporting the weight of a teacher.
According to Mr. Craddock, there have always been a project or two over the years that have been able to support this enormous amount of weight. This year, that "enormous amount of weight" belonged to Mr. Craddock and the projects belonged to students Isabella Kaplan and Mia Brandfon.
“Due to its popularity, I believe that I will continue to make this activity a part of my curriculum in future years,” he maintained.
Hamden Hall Country Day School
1108 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, Connecticut 06517
Phone: 203-752-2600
Fax: 203-752-2651
admissions@hamdenhall.org
Hamden, Connecticut 06517
Phone: 203-752-2600
Fax: 203-752-2651
admissions@hamdenhall.org
About Us
Hamden Hall Country Day School, located less than two miles from Yale University, is one of the best private schools in Connecticut to enroll elementary, middle, and high school students. Our nurturing and inclusive community provides a dynamic learning environment that promotes academic excellence by understanding each child and fostering their individual growth.
