Zig Zag Bopper

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In this activity, learners build a machine made of craft sticks to multiply the levering motion of their hands and create a device that bends and extends. Learners can decorate a pom pom creature at the end that also acts a safety cover for the last pushpin. Use this activity to introduce learners to simple machines, specifically the lever, and how they help us do work. This activity requires the use of a drill; adult supervision recommended. [Activity is publicly available through a web crawler capture on Archive.org.]

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • 1 Hot glue stick
  • 1 Pompom
  • 2 Eyes
  • 10 popsicle sticks
  • 13 pushpins
  • Drill with 1/8" bit
  • Simple jig to hold popsicle sticks while drilling
  • Scissors or utility knife

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Momentum and Velocity
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process

Informal Categories

  • Arts and Crafts
  • Toys

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Watsonville Environmental Science Workshop

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Watsonville Environmental Science Workshop, 2011