An online resource shop for busy classroom teachers that need STEM Challenges, Science Activities, Escape Rooms, Reading and Math Worksheets, and more!
My students cheered when they found out we were building a Newton's Cradle! They loved learning about this Law of Motion and creating their own model to demonstrate it! Your students will love this, too!!
In this challenge students will use materials to design and create a Newton’s Cradle. In this event students will review what they know about the laws of motion- especially the third law. Students will have to build the frame for the device, a way to attach string to the marbles, and a way to attach string to the frame. This can include measuring as the length of the strings is a factor.
★ You will need supplies in addition to this package. This includes Craft sticks, Straws, Beads, Cardboard pieces, Masking tape, Pipe cleaners, Rubber bands, Paper clips and binder clips, Marbles, String, and Hot Glue guns and glue- one glue gun per team. The option of using hot glue for the assembly is yours to make. You may want to ask for parental help in your classroom- depending on the age of your students.
NOTE: This was tested with fifth graders and is recommended for that age group or older students. This is an amazing challenge, but it is a challenge. It may take many tries to get the strings attached and working. Students will love the task and cheer when their device works - even if it works imperfectly!
The package specifically includes:
This challenge will need 1 - 2 class sessions to complete. We needed two full class sessions to complete this project.
The total page count for this download is 23.
After many years as a classroom teacher I made a big leap to a specialist's job. I became a STEM Lab Specialist in 2013 and quickly discovered I had no resources. I literally started from scratch creating my own lessons for 17 classes of third, fourth, and fifth graders. It was slightly overwhelming. Okay, a lot overwhelming! After several months of creating new STEM resources for my classes I really felt that my lessons could be a lifesaver for busy teachers - like you! Thank you so much for visiting my blog and store. Look around- I know you will find something that will suit your class perfectly!
"As always, with this resource you provided a comprehensive, user friendly, and truly awesome product! My students were beyond excited to try this challenge. Thank you for creating another slam dunk activity!"
Carol
Resource Creator & Teacher
Have you always known you were going to be a teacher? I sure have! I grew up in Germany and can still remember playing school with our neighbors that only spoke German. Somehow, kids can play even when they cannot understand each other. My dream to be a teacher continued right into high school and I really thought I would teach upper level math. But, you know, something about working in an elementary school just kept enticing me in that direction. I have taught third, fourth, and fifth grade and I'm now a STEM Specialist. I have two adult children and three fur babies. I love reading and cats and coffee and getting up early. My husband and I are slowly checking off visits to all the places on our bucket list. (Australia we are headed your way soon!)