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The Archimedes screw is a simple machine that has been used for thousands of years to move water uphill. It looks like a giant spiral wrapped around a tilted tube. When you turn the tube, the spiral inside scoops up water at the bottom and carries it higher and higher with each spin. The water gets trapped in the pockets made by the spiral shape, almost like riding an elevator made out of water! This clever design uses motion and shape together to move water without needing any engines or electricity.

In this project created by Suhani, a member of the Rosie Innovators STEM program for young women in high school, you’ll build your own Archimedes screw and discover how engineers in ancient times solved big problems with simple ideas. Ready to get spinning? Grab your materials and follow the steps below!

Required Materials

  • craft roll
  • plastic tubing
  • duct tape
  • scissors
  • large bowl or container
  • water
  • food coloring

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1

Place tape at the bottom of the toilet paper roll, on both the outside and inside.

Step 2

Wrap the tubing around the toilet paper roll in a spiral.

Step 3

Tape the tubing in place

Step 4

If necessary, cut the tubing so that the ends of the tube do not extend past the end of the roll too much.

Step 5

To use, hold the craft at a 45 degree angle and spin the tube to scoop up the water.

Real Women in STEM

Resource 1

Henrietta Vansittart

Henrietta Vansittart was an English engineer in the 19th century known for inventing the Lowe-Vansittart propeller, which improved ship propulsion. Her design was inspired by the principles of the Archimedes screw, making ships more fuel-efficient and faster.