Spaghetti Tower
Teams build the tallest free-standing structure using only spaghetti, tape, and string, topped with a marshmallow.
Spaghetti Tower Challenge, also known as the Marshmallow Challenge, is a design thinking classic. Teams receive 20 sticks of spaghetti, one yard of tape, one yard of string, and one marshmallow. In 18 minutes, they must build the tallest free-standing structure with the marshmallow on top. This deceptively simple challenge teaches rapid prototyping, iterative design, and the importance of testing early. Research shows kindergarteners often outperform business school students because they test early and often. Perfect for illustrating innovation principles.
Objective
Teach rapid prototyping, iterative design, and the importance of early testing.
- 20 sticks uncooked spaghetti per team
- One yard masking tape per team
- One yard string per team
- One marshmallow per team
- Scissors
- Timer
- Measuring tape
How to Play
Distribute Materials
3 minGive each team exactly: 20 spaghetti sticks, 1 yard tape, 1 yard string, 1 marshmallow. No extra materials allowed!
Explain Rules
2 minBuild tallest free-standing structure. Marshmallow must be on top. Structure must stand on its own for measurement. 18 minutes total.
Building Time
18 minTeams design and build. Encourage testing early. Call out time warnings at 10, 5, 2, and 1 minute remaining.
Measurement and Judging
7 minWhen time ends, hands off! Measure each standing structure from table to top of marshmallow. Document results.
Debrief Lessons
10 minDiscuss: Who tested early? Who planned vs. built immediately? Connect to real work: prototyping, iteration, user testing.
Pro Tips
Emphasize the learning over winning. The lessons about iteration are the real value.
Variations
Try these variations to adapt the game for different contexts and group sizes.
Changes:
Changes:
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