[5th Grade Elementary School] Independent Research Themes & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas That Lead to Learning
Elementary school students, have you decided what to do for your independent research project this year?
Since you can choose any theme for independent research—experiments, crafts, observations—it can be hard to decide what to do each year.
So in this article, we’ve gathered a variety of independent research ideas to help you not only search for ideas but also expand on any interests you come up with.
Because this is aimed at fifth graders, we’re introducing topics that lead to deeper learning.
Feel free to use this as a reference and keep making new discoveries!
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[5th Grade Elementary School] Independent Research Topics & Crafts | A Collection of Ideas That Lead to Learning (61–70)
Cardboard 3D craft
Three-dimensional creations using single-faced corrugated cardboard make the most of the material’s qualities depending on the direction and shape of your cuts.
If you cut along the direction of the flutes, the cardboard bends easily; by changing the cutting direction, you can form pillar-like shapes.
Cut long strips and coil them or make rods to combine into towers, arches, or animal bodies—shape them freely.
Connecting multiple parts in three dimensions results in sturdy works.
Painting the surface or adding patterns enhances the finish.
Sculptures born from everyday materials convey the depth of making and the freedom of imagination.
Cardboard garbage collection truck
Let me introduce cardboard garbage collection trucks.
There are different types of garbage trucks, and their movements and installed parts vary.
All of the trucks being introduced are made using cardboard.
By paying attention to details—such as changing the shape of the emergency stop switch section, recreating the tail lamps with plastic sheets, and writing the manufacturer’s name—you can complete a garbage truck that looks just like the real thing.
Understanding the movements and features of each type of garbage truck also makes it easier to imagine the materials you’ll need to prepare.
Be sure to try making a garbage truck in your own style.
Cardboard vending machine
Let’s introduce a cardboard vending machine that looks just like the real thing.
Insert a coin and press a button, and a drink will come out from inside.
Gather the materials—milk cartons, cardboard, bubble gum, rubber bands, paper clips, plastic sheets, tape, glue, a ruler, scissors, and a utility knife—and let’s get building.
We’ll start by making the internal parts of the cardboard vending machine.
The key is to carefully measure each part and cut it to the correct size before assembling.
Measure the base cardboard as well to ensure it’s the right size to hold the drinks, then build accordingly.
It also sounds fun to make your own original drinks!
Marble Maze
Let me introduce a marble maze that’s so much fun to roll around.
Get your materials ready: a plastic board, colored construction paper, colored pencils, a ruler, a cutting mat, scissors, double-sided tape, clear tape, a ballpoint pen, and marbles.
Cut the plastic board to create the base shape of the maze.
It’s best to assemble the base by attaching pieces around the edges.
For the maze course, cut the board and adjust the sizes as you build.
Create traps by cutting construction paper and attaching them along the course.
Adding tunnels will make it even more exciting.
Roll your marble and enjoy aiming for the goal!
A Castle of Light Made with Corrugated Plastic and LEDs
This craft uses plastic corrugated board (known as “Pladan” in Japanese) to create a fantastical castle of light, featuring enchanting lighting effects.
Use a utility knife to cut window shapes you like into the board—stars, hearts, moons—feel free to get creative.
Once you’ve cut them out, roll the sheet into a cylinder and secure it with tape, then place an LED light inside to finish.
When you switch on the light, it shines through the windows, casting mysterious shadows around the room and creating the atmosphere of a real castle.
One of its charms is how it looks different in daylight and at night.
If you design your own and build a piece with a story, it will open up a world of imagination.