Challenge: Bush cup

Survival Challenge: Make a Bush Cup

Objective

Students will craft a functional bush cup (a small, natural drinking vessel) using only natural or limited materials, emphasizing creativity, resourcefulness, and bushcraft skills.

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Materials Needed

Natural Materials:

• Wood: A log or large branch from a softwood tree (e.g., willow, birch, or poplar).
• Bark: Large, flexible pieces of bark (birch works best).
• Leaves: Large, non-toxic leaves for lining (optional).

Tools:

• Knife or small axe for carving.
• Spoon gouge or improvised scraping tool (e.g., a rock or shell).
• Fire and coals (optional, for hollowing).

Safety Gear:

Gloves, safety goggles, and first aid supplies.

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Preparation

1. Set Up Workspace:
   • Choose a safe carving area with clear boundaries and instructions for handling tools.
   • Have water buckets available if using fire for hollowing.
2. Teach Skills:
   • Carving Basics: Demonstrate safe knife and axe techniques.
   • Material Selection: Show students how to identify and select suitable wood or bark.
3. Examples:
   • Provide examples of simple bush cups, both carved and bark-based.

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Challenge Instructions

Option 1: Carved Wooden Cup

1. Choose a Log:
   • Select a softwood log or branch at least 4–6 inches in diameter.
2. Shape the Cup:
   • Use a knife or axe to carve the exterior shape of the cup.
   • Smooth the surface with finer carving or scraping.
3. Hollow the Interior:
   • Knife/Gouge Method: Use a spoon gouge or knife to scrape out the center.
   • Burning Method: Use a hot coal placed in the center to char the wood. Blow gently to control the burn, then scrape out the charred wood.
4. Smooth and Finish:
   • Sand the edges if tools are available, or use a smooth rock.
   • Ensure the interior is smooth enough to hold liquid.

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Option 2: Bark-Based Cup

1. Harvest Bark:
   • Carefully remove a sheet of bark from a suitable tree (e.g., birch) without damaging the tree's core.
2. Shape the Cup:
   • Fold the bark into a cone or cylindrical shape.
   • Secure the edges with natural cordage, thin vines, or small wooden pegs.
3. Seal the Cup:
   • If available, use sap or resin to seal seams.
   • Line the interior with large, non-toxic leaves if necessary.

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Step 3: Test the Cup

• Pour water into the cup to check for leaks and usability.
• Make adjustments as needed to improve functionality.

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Challenge Variations

1. Speed Challenge: Who can craft a usable cup the fastest?
2. Natural-Only: Restrict tools to natural materials like rocks or shells.
3. Aesthetic Bonus: Award points for the most creative or beautifully crafted cup.
4. Utility Test: Use the cups to collect water or drink from a natural source.

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Debrief and Reflection

1. What Worked Well:
   • Discuss successful techniques and materials.
2. Challenges Faced:
   • Reflect on difficulties encountered, like shaping or sealing the cup.
3. Application of Skills:
   • Explore how these skills could be useful in survival situations or historical contexts.

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This bushcraft challenge is ideal for Acton Academy’s hands-on, learner-driven approach. It fosters creativity, patience, and problem-solving, all while building a tangible and functional product.