Core Skills Analysis
Science and STEM
- Cillian explored basic principles of physics, particularly elasticity and energy transfer through making a bouncy ball.
- He learned how different materials and their properties affect the bounce and texture of an object.
- He practiced following a sequence of steps to create a physical object, reinforcing cause and effect relationships.
- This hands-on activity enhanced fine motor skills and introduced simple engineering concepts by constructing a functional item.
Tips
To deepen Cillian’s understanding of physics and materials science, you can explore additional experiments with elasticity, such as testing different homemade balls made from various materials like rubber bands, balloons, or putty, observing how bounce height changes. Incorporate simple measurement tools, like rulers, to quantify how high each ball bounces and record results to introduce early data analysis skills. Engage in story-based learning by reading about scientists who study materials and motion. This will stimulate curiosity and connect the activity to real-world applications. Incorporating art by decorating the balls can also promote creativity while planning and executing a design.
Book Recommendations
- Bounce! by Ann Jonas: A fun story that explores the journey of a rubber ball, illustrating concepts of bounce and motion for young kids.
- Physics for Kids: Simple Machines & Motion by Robert W. Wood: An accessible introduction to basic physics concepts including motion and simple machines, perfect to complement STEM activities.
- Iggy Peck, Architect by Andrea Beaty: A story celebrating creativity, engineering, and problem-solving that encourages children to build and explore STEM concepts.
Learning Standards
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.K.3 – Use illustrations and details to describe its key ideas (Describing STEM steps and outcomes).
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.MD.A.2 – Directly compare two objects with measurable attributes (Comparing bounce heights).
- NGSS K-PS2-1 – Plan and conduct an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object (Relating to bounce and energy transfer).
Try This Next
- Worksheet to illustrate and label the steps of making a bouncy ball and the materials used.
- Drawing task: Design your own custom bouncy ball and write what materials you would use and why.