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Home » Primary Science » Key Stage 1 Science » Craft Stick ( Popsicle Stick ) Chain Reaction

Craft Stick ( Popsicle Stick ) Chain Reaction

Published: Jun 26, 2023 by Emma Vanstone · This post may contain affiliate links · 1 Comment

A craft stick or popsicle stick chain reaction is a brilliant example of how potential energy and kinetic energy work. As you weave the lolly sticks together, you can actually feel the potential energy building.

How does a popsicle stick chain reaction work?

The sticks are bent and pinned over each other, which creates tension. When you release the end stick, the tension and potential energy are released, making the sticks fly through the air.

Popsicle Stick Chain Reaction set up and ready to fly - outdoor science for kids #scienceforkids #outdoorscienceforkids #chainreaction #popsiclestickcrafts

I first saw a lolly stick chain reaction at a conference held by the Primary Science Teaching Trust and couldn’t wait to show my children. We’ve since made hundreds of different sizes and even added small pom pom balls to add to the excitement.

What you need for a popsicle stick chain reaction

Lots of craft sticks or popsicle sticks. We used slightly thicker sticks than normal.

How to make a popsicle stick chain reaction

Set up your chain reaction using the photos below as a guide. It can be a bit tricky, but totally worth the effort.

Step 1

Step 2

Popsicle Stick Chain Reaction Step 2

Step 3

Popsicle Chain Reaction Step 3

More Chain Reaction Ideas

Make the longest chain reaction you can.

Add some pom poms or other small ( and very light ) objects to the top.

Add something a little heavier than pom poms to see if they fly as high – remember to stand back.

You might also like our egg chain reaction!

Egg chain reaction for kids, use dominoes and half pipes to create a chain reaction
Easter egg chain reaction

There are more chain reaction ideas in this great post from Frugal Fun for Boys.

I also have a giant chain reaction we set up in the garden.

More Popsicle Stick STEM Challenges

Design and build a popsicle stick catapult. This is another great activity to demonstrate kinetic and potential energy.

We also really love the look of these Exploding Boomerangs from I Can Teach My Child.

These popsicle stick bridges from Mommy Evolution look great too.

craft stick chain reactions set up with pom poms on the craft sticks
Lolly stick chain reactions

Science Concepts

Energy

Potential Energy

Kinetic Energy

Last Updated on June 26, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

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Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. CBSE books for class 5

    August 10, 2016 at 10:12 am

    It seems so much fun!

    Reply

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