Third graders will be hooked! A collection of science project ideas using everyday materials
For summer vacation independent research, especially for third graders, it’s common to think, “I want to pick an interesting topic, but I don’t want it to be too hard.” Actually, with familiar materials and a little creativity, you can do experiments and crafts packed with scientific discoveries.
Here, we introduce curiosity-sparking ideas like learning about chemical reactions by making bread, observing plant mechanisms with colorful flowers, and reviving a dried-out marker.
Try exciting research and craft projects that will make your friends say, “Awesome!”
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Ideas for Independent Research Projects Made with Everyday Materials That Third Graders Will Love (71–80)
A beanbag-toss game using ping-pong balls
Here’s a fun and engaging game using ping-pong balls: a ball-toss challenge.
Gather chopsticks, clothespins, tape, and paper cups to make it.
When building the launcher, be mindful of the angle as you fix the chopsticks in place with tape.
Secure them firmly with tape and test to make sure it works properly as you build.
Attach a pair of plastic bottle caps to the back end of the chopsticks, and it’s complete.
You can decorate it however you like.
Stick paper cups on the wall to create goals, then try shooting from the launcher and have fun playing!
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.
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!
Ideas for Independent Research Projects Using Everyday Materials That Will Fascinate 3rd Graders (81–90)
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!
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.
Making a scarf with paper cups and disposable chopsticks
Easy even without knitting needles! Let’s knit a scarf using a paper cup and chopsticks.
First, cut the chopsticks to a suitable length, then cut out the bottom of the paper cup.
Attach five chopsticks evenly around the outside of the cup so that they stick out 2–3 cm above the rim.
Tape the end of the yarn to the inside of the cup, and loop the yarn around the chopsticks alternately front and back to form a star shape.
Once the star is formed, start knitting by passing the yarn that’s already on the chopsticks from bottom to top.
When you reach your desired length, cut the yarn, thread the end under the five loops on the chopsticks, and remove it from the chopsticks to finish!
