Sixth grade students participated in the Pringles Ring challenge, where they aimed to create a complete circle using Pringles chips. This challenge highlights several important scientific concepts. The unique shape of a Pringle chip, which is concave, allows for optimal stacking because the curves interlock, providing stability. Additionally, the textured surface of the chips generates friction, preventing them from sliding apart when arranged in a circular formation. Students quickly realized that starting with a solid base is essential, as it evenly distributes the downward force of gravity, helping the structure maintain its shape. By carefully placing each chip, students used the natural curvature of the Pringles to form a complete circle.

Our students participate in these types of challenges to help them think creatively, attack a problem and formulate a solution by trial and error, not unlike the Scientific Method. Many students did complete the circle and it was inspiring to see how repeated “failure” spurred them to continue.

We even ate a few Pringles in the process.  Science is fun and often delicious!