STEAM PENDULUM LESSON:
Students should bring random items into the classroom for their STEAM projects. Tape, straws, clay pieces, water bottles, foam cups are all great. The goal is for the students to create their own swinging pendulum which disperses paint. The students will learn through trial and error about the forces of motion and gravity. I would not give the students so many instructions as displayed in this lesson plan. I might start by explaining what exactly a pendulum is and how they work. I might show the students a video on how to make a pendulum. Instead of following the step by step instructions on how to create these pendulums, I wold have the students break into groups and begin the design process. Students would be instructed to create illustrations of pendulums, labeling what materials would be used within their group. The next time that the class meets, students can begin to actually construct their pendulums through trial and error. I would first have the students brainstorm in groups and create illustrations on how they would create their swinging pendulum. How will the paint be dispersed? What will you hang it from? How will you hang it? Paint can be dispersed from an upside down empty glue bottle, a foam cup with a hole in the bottom attached by string, etc... Students are encouraged to brainstorm as a group. The next time the class meets, students will be given materials and told to construct their pendulums. Links: http://handmadekidsart.com/pendulum-painting/ |