Problem Solving Challenge – Student Worksheet & Task Cards

This hands-on resource is designed to engage students in critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem solving through a series of structured challenges. Students work in groups to complete mini tasks while following a clear problem-solving process.

What’s Included

• Student problem-solving worksheet
• 3 ready-to-use task cards:
  • Paper Airplane Accuracy Challenge
  • Ping Pong Ball Bounce Challenge
  • Cup Tower Challenge

• Clear structure using a step-by-step problem-solving framework

How It Works

Students work through each challenge by following a structured process:

• Understand the problem
• Plan a solution
• Test and solve
• Record their answer
• Reflect on their results

This format encourages students to focus on both their thinking process and teamwork.

Skills Developed

• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving strategies
• Collaboration and communication
• Creativity and design thinking

Why This Resource Works

This activity is highly engaging and easy to implement. The challenges are simple to set up using common classroom materials, while still requiring students to think strategically and work together.

Suggested Use

Perfect for:

• STEM or Engineering classes
• Team-building activities
• Early finishers or enrichment
• Back-to-school or icebreaker activities

Teacher Tip

Have students rotate through each challenge in small groups to keep energy high and maximize participation.