Page 2

1x1 BRICK SUPPORT

Now build structures using two bricks, starting with a single 1x1 brick as a support. In some cases the structure can no longer stand upright - it falls over, or TOPPLES. Record each structure graphically and record whether each STANDS or TOPPLES:

1+1 Brick 1+1 Graphic 1x1 brick on 1x1 base

STANDS
1+2 Brick 1+2 Graphic 2x1 brick on 1x1 base

STANDS
1+3A Brick 1+3A Graphic 3x1 brick on 1x1 base
1st combination (side)
TOPPLES
1+3B Brick 1+3B Graphic 3x1 brick on 1x1 base
2nd combination (center)
STANDS
1+4A Brick 1+4A Graphic 4x1 brick on 1x1 base
1st combination (side)
TOPPLES
1+4B Brick 1+4B Graphic 4x1 brick on 1x1 base
2nd combination (center)
STANDS
1+6A Brick 1+6A Graphic 6x1 brick on 1x1 base
1st combination (side)
TOPPLES
1+6B Brick 1+6B Graphic 6x1 brick on 1x1 base
2nd combination (one block in)
TOPPLES
1+6C Brick 1+6C Graphic 6x1 brick on 1x1 base
3rd combination (center)
STANDS

Does the chart above include all the combinations for two bricks, where the base is a 1x1 brick? Shouldn't there be four possibilities for the 4x1 brick on a 1x1 base and not just two? Why or why not?

Using our observations, can you form a good rule about when a brick on a 1x1 base STANDS or TOPPLES? Make sure to record the rule you create. It should look something like this:

A two-brick structure with a 1x1 base will STAND when... and will TOPPLE when...

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Developed by Dr. Garrett R. Love for
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Copyright © 2001
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