Written by This fun elf-themed basketball STEM challenge is a great hands-on science activity for learning about transfer of energy. The idea is to build a lolly stick catapult and a basketball net for an elf!
You could set this up as a ready made activity and encourage children to experiment using different projectiles on the catapult. Small pom pom balls and ping pong balls work well! Or, another idea is to leave instructions and materials out so children can build their own creations!
If you want to make the activity more structured, use my FREE instructions and template at the bottom of the post.
Elf Basketball STEM Challenge
You’ll need
Wide popsicle sticks/ lolly sticks
Straw
Clay or play dough
Small paper cup
Pom Pom Balls
Tape
Elastic Bands
Milk bottle top
Cardboard
Pens
Instructions
Follow my easy lolly stick catapult instructions or watch the video below.
Build a mini basketball hoop. Use our design for inspiration.
Test your basketball hoop and catapult.
Try pushing the catapult arm all the way down, then halfway, to see how that affects the ball’s flight.
Experiment with a table tennis ball, pom poms or even marshmallows.
How does a catapult work?
When the catapult arm is pushed down, it stores potential energy, which is transferred to the ball as kinetic energy when the arm is released.
As the ball flies higher, it starts to slow down. The ball’s kinetic energy is temporarily converted to potential energy as it gains height. As the ball starts to fall, it speeds up again, and the stored potential energy is turned back into kinetic energy. Gravity acting on the ball gives it a curved path through the air.
Factors that affect a lollystick catapult
The amount of stored energy – the further the catapult arm is pushed down, the more elastic potential energy is stored, so the ball flies further.
The angle of the launch – for maximum horizontal distance of flight, the launch angle should be about 45 degrees.
The weight of the ball—lighter projectiles usually fly further than heavier balls when the same amount of force is used, as less force is needed to accelerate them.
Flexibility of the sticks and elastic bands – more flexible materials can store more energy.
FREE Elf Basketball STEM Challenge Sheet
This free pack includes a simple one-page worksheet and a more detailed three-page design and evaluation pack.
If you like this idea, take a look at my 24 days of FREE elf activity ideas!!
Last Updated on November 28, 2025 by Emma Vanstone
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