Solar System Mobile

Solar System Mobile - STEM activity

Materials:

- Styrofoam balls (various sizes)

- Paint (acrylic or tempera)

- Paintbrushes

- String or fishing line

- Scissors

- Glue

- Construction paper (for hangers)

Procedure:

1. Introduction: 

Introduce the Solar System and its planets to the children.

2. Planet Creation: 

Give each child a Styrofoam ball and have them paint and decorate it to represent a planet (e.g., Earth, Mars, Jupiter).

3. Mobile Assembly: 

Cut a piece of string or fishing line and tie it around the top of each planet.

4. Hanger Creation: 

Cut out a hanger shape from construction paper and glue it to the top of each planet.

5. Mobile Construction: 

Have the children attach the planets to a mobile base (e.g., a hanger, a ring) in order from the Sun (center) to the outer planets.

6. Display: 

Hang the mobile in a window or from the ceiling.

Tips and Variations:

1. Add the Sun: 

Include a larger Styrofoam ball to represent the Sun.

2. Use Different Materials: 

Experiment with different materials, such as paper plates or foam sheets, to create the planets.

3. Create a Story: 

Encourage the children to create a story about the Solar System and its planets.