DIY science projects that elementary school boys will love: ideas you can make with everyday materials

Maze ideas

You can make a fun maze with a cardboard wrap core! Here’s a simple way to do it.

First, cut construction paper to the length of the wrap core, and draw a maze on it using any writing tools you like.

Attach double-sided tape to the paper with the maze and wrap it around the core.

Next, cut a piece of wrapping film to about 5 cm and stick your favorite stickers on it—that’s it! Thread it through the wrap core to play the maze game.

If you make the construction paper removable, you can enjoy original mazes over and over again.

It’s also recommended to use stickers of your favorite characters to enjoy a themed world.

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kepiko

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Maze ideas

You can make a fun maze with a cardboard wrap core! Here’s a simple way to do it.

First, cut construction paper to the length of the wrap core, and draw a maze on it using any writing tools you like.

Attach double-sided tape to the paper with the maze and wrap it around the core.

Next, cut a piece of wrapping film to about 5 cm and stick your favorite stickers on it—that’s it! Thread it through the wrap core to play the maze game.

If you make the construction paper removable, you can enjoy original mazes over and over again.

It’s also recommended to use stickers of your favorite characters to enjoy a themed world.

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kepiko

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Fly! Core Rocket

http://www.lemon8-app.com

Here’s how to make an easy “core rocket.” You’ll need a plastic wrap core, a toilet paper core, two rubber bands, and a straw.

First, cut the straw so it’s just a little longer than the opening of the toilet paper core.

Link the two rubber bands by looping them together.

Tape the rubber bands to the straw, then tape the straw onto the plastic wrap core with cellophane tape.

Once it’s set up so the toilet paper core can be launched, you’re done! Decorate the toilet paper core however you like to make your own original rocket.

Have fun and get creative!

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kepiko

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A boat that glides smoothly

[Craft You Can Play With] A Smooth-Sailing Boat (Milk Carton Screw Propeller) [Make It Now] Easy! Playable Craft & Upcycled Handmade Toy

Let’s try making a boat you can use in the bath or for water play.

The materials are a milk carton, a tray, a straw, and three rubber bands.

The tools you’ll need are scissors, cellophane tape, and a pen.

The key point of this craft is the propeller made with the milk carton, rubber bands, and straw—this will be the boat’s power source.

Once you’ve made the propeller, all you have to do is attach it to the tray, which serves as the body, so even lower-grade elementary school children can make it by themselves.

When it’s finished, wind the straw attached to the rubber bands, set it afloat on the water, and have fun playing with it.

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sasashina

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Build and observe bird nest boxes

How about this for an independent project? Build a birdhouse and observe wild birds.

Even if you don’t keep them as pets, you can observe birds by setting up nest boxes and feeders in your yard.

The more time you spend, the more opportunities you’ll have to see a variety of birds.

Observe which birds come and what kinds of foods different birds eat.

It’s also a good idea to take photos or make drawings.

This independent study project is suitable for upper elementary grades and above.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)

[Pipe Cleaner Art] Easier than origami: How to make a rhinoceros beetle — a displayable insect specimen you can “keep,” perfect for summer vacation projects, elementary school crafts, pipe cleaner crafts, pipe cleaner bear, beetle, how to make pipe cleaner craft

Let’s try making a rhinoceros beetle by interweaving chenille stems (pipe cleaners).

To convey the beetle’s strength and solidity, the way you fold and layer the pieces is key.

Make the horn and body, wings, and legs separately, then assemble them at the end.

By carefully adjusting the angles and volume of each part, you’ll end up with a three-dimensional beetle.

For a sturdy build, it’s best to pay attention to how the parts connect and secure those joints as you assemble.

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kappamaki

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Specimen preparation

[Independent Research] Making Our First Specimen! A Parent-Child Challenge for Lower-Grade Elementary School Students—Make a Specimen

A great science project for kids who love insects is making specimen displays! Creating specimens can seem a bit challenging, but it’s sure to become a special summer vacation memory.

Some steps are tough for children to do alone, so it’s perfect for a parent–child challenge.

The key is to first collect insects in good condition.

Next, to shape them properly, soak the insects in hot water to soften them.

After soaking for about 30 minutes, arrange the shape, pin them to a base with dressmaker’s pins, and let them dry—that’s it! They’ll make a fine specimen as is, but if you encase them in resin, it will look even more professional.

Choose the method that suits your child’s age and give it a try!

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miyabi

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