We've been making lots of paper chains recently and have found that some are stronger than others, depending on the material used. So, we set about devising an experiment to find the material best suited to making paper chains.
The activity makes a fun Christmas STEM challenge or science investigation.
Planning the experiment
Variables
Materials to make the paper chains with – tissue paper, parcel paper, cardboard, foil, gift wrap
How to test?
Gently pull on the chain till it breaks, recording the force needed to break the chain.
Which factors do we need to keep constant?
Size of chain
Amount of sellotape used
Amount of overlap of each segment
Size of individual segments
Person testing
Possible causes of errors
Hard to record the force used to break the chains.
Properties of a good paper chain
Bends easily
Strong
Looks good.
This activity is great for:
Key Stage 1 Design and Technology
Improving skills, knowledge and understanding of an iterative design process.
Design
Allowing children to design a purposeful, functional and appealing product for themselves and others.
Generating and developing ideas
Make
Selecting appropriate tools and equipment.
Explore
Exploring and evaluating existing products and using features of those in their design.
More similar science investigations
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Which do you think are the best materials for muffling sound? We used a cardboard tube with different materials stuffed inside to find out.
Can you make a waterproof roof for a LEGO house?
If you need paper chain inspiration these reindeer and snowman chains are super cute from Recycled Crafts.
Last Updated on December 5, 2024 by Emma Vanstone
tanya says
I love your ideas. You can turn anything into a fun science project 🙂 Thanks!
Becky says
Got to be toilet trolls right?