Cup stack teamwork challenge: a 25-minute 5th grade collaboration activity
What it is: a 5th grade teamwork challenge where groups of 4 build a pyramid of paper cups using only a rubber band tied to 4 strings, with no hands on the cups. Success depends on clear talk, listening and shared roles, which the class then reflects on.
Time: about 25 minutes. Grade: 5th grade.
Materials: per group: 6 to 10 paper cups, one rubber band with 4 strings (about 50 centimeters each) tied evenly around it, and a timer.
- Show the tool. Each student holds one string; pulling stretches the band to grab a cup.
- Give groups 3 minutes to plan before touching the tool: who calls the moves, what words they will use.
- Groups build a 3-2-1 pyramid of 6 cups. If they finish, they try 10 cups.
- Pause halfway and ask each group to name one thing that is working and one to change.
- Debrief: "What did good listening look like? What would you do differently next time?"
Safety: keep strings away from necks and faces, and use paper or plastic cups only.
Differentiation: students who need support work in a group of 3 with a shorter goal of 3 cups. Students who are ready build in silence using only hand signals. Students with motor needs can be the planner who gives directions.
Quick check: ask a student to name one specific thing a teammate said or did that helped the group.
Save this activity to your library so it is ready when you need it.
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About this resource
- Shared by
- @UpOnlyLearning · Curriculum team
- Posted
- Oct 30, 2026
- Type
- Lesson plan
- Grade
- Grades 3–5
- Subject
- Life skills & money
- Language
- English
- License
- Free for classroom, co-op and tutoring use. Please don't resell.