O-Level Mathematics Project
Topic: Investigating the Effect of Different Shapes on the Strength of Paper
Bridges
1.0 Identified Problem
Bridges in real life must carry heavy loads while using the least possible
material. Understanding which geometric shapes provide the greatest
strength can help students appreciate the practical application of
mathematics in engineering and design.
1.1 Description of the Problem
When a paper bridge is built using different shapes (flat, folded into a
triangle, or folded into an arch), the weight it can support changes. Many
students learn geometry but rarely connect it to practical uses like structural
engineering. This project explores how shape influences strength and
load-bearing capacity.
1.2 Statement of Intent
The aim is to test and compare paper bridges of different cross-sectional
shapes—flat, triangular, and arched—to find which design carries the
greatest weight, and to explain the results using mathematical concepts
such as area, center of mass, and distribution of forces.
1.3 Project Specifications
The solution should:
● Use inexpensive, easily available materials (paper, coins, rulers).
● Apply mathematical concepts like measurement, geometry, data
handling, and averages.
● Produce clear data that can be presented in tables, graphs, and
simple calculations.
● Relate results to real-world bridge engineering.
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
1. Flat Paper Bridge
● Merits: Simple to build.
● Demerits: Weakest design; bends quickly.
2. Triangular (Accordion-Fold) Bridge
● Merits: Distributes weight along folds; stronger.
● Demerits: Requires accurate folding.
3. Arched Bridge
● Merits: Transfers load to supports; classic in real bridges.
● Demerits: Harder to construct and keep stable.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas / Possible
Solutions
1. Test Flat vs. Triangular vs. Arched
● Merits: Direct comparison; clear data.
● Demerits: Time needed to ensure consistent size and length.
2. Add More Shapes (Cylinder, Box)
● Merits: Wider variety of data.
● Demerits: Could complicate analysis.
3. Vary Paper Thickness
● Merits: Tests material strength as well as shape.
● Demerits: Introduces extra variable; harder to control.
Stage 4: Development / Refinement of
Chosen Idea
4.1 Choice
Compare three shapes only—Flat, Triangular, and Arched—using the
same paper size for fairness.
4.2 Justification
This keeps the experiment focused, allows accurate measurement, and
directly relates to common real-life bridge designs.
4.3 Refinements
● Use identical paper strips (e.g., A4 sheets folded lengthwise to 5 cm
width).
● Bridge span: 20 cm between two stacks of books.
● Add weights (coins) gradually and record the maximum weight held
before collapse.
● Repeat each test 3 times to calculate averages.
Stage 5: Presentation of Final Solution
Introduction
The project compares three paper bridge shapes to see which supports
the most weight and applies mathematical analysis to the data.
Method & Calculations
1. Build three bridge designs: flat strip, accordion-fold triangle, and arch.
2. Place each bridge between two books 20 cm apart.
3. Add coins one at a time until the bridge collapses.
4. Record maximum weight for each trial in grams.
5. Calculate mean (average), median, and mode for each design.
6. Plot results on a bar graph to compare strength.
Example of Calculation:
If the triangular bridge holds 450 g, 470 g, and 460 g in three trials:
Mean = (450 + 470 + 460) ÷ 3 = 460 g.
Final Result
The triangular or arched bridge is expected to hold the greatest weight due
to better distribution of forces, demonstrating the strength of certain
geometric shapes.
Real-Life Applications
● Explains why trusses and arches are common in real bridges and
roofs.
● Shows practical use of averages, data presentation, and geometry.
● Encourages design thinking in engineering and architecture.
Materials Used
● A4 paper sheets
● Coins or small weights
● Two stacks of books (supports)
● Ruler and pencil
● Data recording sheet or notebook
Stage 6: Evaluation and
Recommendations
6.1 Relevance
The project applies mathematical concepts—measurement, data handling,
geometry—to a tangible, real-world problem of structural strength.
6.2 Challenges
● Keeping paper length and folding consistent.
● Ensuring that coins are added evenly to avoid tilting.
● Small differences in paper quality may affect results.
6.3 Recommendations
● Repeat trials more times for improved accuracy.
● Test additional variables such as bridge length or different paper
thickness.
● Share findings with science or design clubs to inspire
cross-disciplinary projects.
