[For First Graders] A Collection of Science Project Ideas Using Everyday Materials
Many first graders struggle with their summer vacation projects and crafts.
It’s completely understandable to feel unsure—“It seems hard,” “What should we make?” In this article, we introduce experiment and craft ideas that kids can enjoy.
From a fascinating experiment with floating vegetables, to postcards made from milk cartons, to colorful aroma stones—there are plenty of fun projects using familiar materials.
Enjoy them together as a parent and child, and make great summer memories!
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[For 1st Graders] A Collection of Science Project Ideas Using Everyday Materials (71–80)
Paper yo-yo made from disposable chopsticks and wrapping paper

Let me introduce a paper yo-yo made from chopsticks and wrapping paper that’s fun to stretch and snap back.
Prepare some chopsticks and wrapping paper, and let’s get started.
Measure the length and cut the wrapping paper into a rectangle, then join the pieces with glue or tape.
Secure a chopstick with tape and roll the paper around it.
The key is to roll it tightly so there are no gaps.
Finish with decorations, and it’s done.
Try different wrapping papers to make your own original paper yo-yo and have fun! Be safe and don’t aim it at people.
Target-throwing game with disposable chopsticks and clothespins

Let me introduce a target-shooting game that launches with a burst of energy using chopsticks and a clothespin.
Prepare two chopsticks, a clothespin, tape, and a plastic bottle cap to make it.
For the launcher, clip the clothespin’s metal spring onto a chopstick, then tape the clothespin’s handle and the chopstick together to form the base.
Cut a slit in the plastic bottle cap and fasten it to the chopstick with a rubber band.
Make a target out of a milk carton and draw point values on it.
Set a marble-sized ball on the finished launcher and try aiming at the target.
Have fun seeing how many points you can score!
Disposable chopstick holder

Here’s a chopstick accessory holder that’s perfect for a summer vacation craft.
Prepare 12 pairs of disposable chopsticks, glue, and colored construction paper.
Split the chopsticks in half, then use scissors to cut all the way around the midpoint to make them half-length pieces.
With 12 pairs, you’ll get 48 sticks.
Cut the colored paper into a square, apply glue to the left and right sides, and attach chopsticks; then flip it over, rotate it, and glue chopsticks onto the sides that don’t have them yet.
Apply glue where the chopsticks overlap and stack the sticks one by one.
Make sure they stack up straight.
Let it dry thoroughly, and it’s done!
How to make a chopstick tree

Here’s how to make a chopstick tree that lets you enjoy a cozy nighttime atmosphere when you light it up.
Prepare chopsticks, yarn, glue, and decorations like beads, then get started.
First, build the tree’s frame with chopsticks.
Wrap yarn evenly around the base.
For a summery feel, you could use colors like light blue or pale green.
Once you decorate it with summer-themed items such as watermelon or fish-shaped wind chimes, your chopstick tree is complete.
It’s sure to captivate elementary school kids, too.
Try changing the seasonal theme as you make it—you might discover something new each time.
Chopstick grabber

Let me introduce a chopstick grabber that’s fun to make and fun to play with.
Prepare eight wooden chopsticks, double-sided tape, plastic bottle caps, and rubber bands.
Stack four chopsticks in a crisscross pattern and secure the center with a rubber band.
Make another set the same way.
Combine the two finished sets and bind them with rubber bands where the chopsticks overlap to hold them together.
Finally, attach two plastic bottle caps to the tip, and it’s done.
Try moving the handle and have fun playing with it!
Handmade maracas

This craft is inspired by maracas made with paper cups that produce a cheerful rattling sound when lightly shaken.
The steps are simple: put beads or finely cut pieces of straw into a paper cup, then cover it with another paper cup as a lid.
What you put inside is important—consider how different fillings change the sound as you make it.
Decorating the outside is also a key point; aim for fun decorations that match the light, lively sound of the maracas.
Paper slingshot made from origami and chopstick sleeves

A slingshot is a Y-shaped gadget used to launch pebbles or paper far into the distance.
At first glance it might seem like just a toy, but similar hunting tools have existed all over the world since ancient times.
The need to propel objects far is what gave rise to that shape.
Let’s try making such a slingshot using chopsticks.
The key to building a sturdy slingshot is reinforcing the space between the Y-shape with a toothpick.
There aren’t any particularly difficult steps, so even younger elementary school children should be able to make it.
You can switch up what you launch—paper, stones, clay, slime, and more—and turn it into a science project-style exploration.



