Calling all space lovers! Whether you enjoy star-gazing on a clear summer night or are in planning mode for an upcoming solar system unit or astronomy study, this hands-on STEM activity will help your kids learn about constellations, stars, and the patterns stars form in the night sky! Using a few simple manipulatives, your child will enjoy this fun, constellation activity.
To Make Pipe Cleaner Constellations You Will Need:
- Constellation Flashcards
- Pipe Cleaners
- Star/Pony Beads
How To Make Pipe Cleaner Constellations:
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Start out by grabbing the constellation flashcards (click link) and scroll to the bottom of the post, under the terms of use, and click on the text link that says >> Download <<. The pdf file will open in a new window for you to save the freebie and print the constellations flashcards.
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Provide your child with several pipe cleaners and beads.
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With the supplies and flashcards ready, build away! The easiest way to do this star activity is to string the correct number of beads onto the pipe cleaner first and then use the flashcard to help guide you in where to bend and how to shape the pipe cleaner.
Notes:
Of the three, the Ursa Minor is probably the most difficult to put together because you have to add the beads and then bend and twist the pipe cleaner to create the dipper part the correct way. If you choose more difficult constellations to create, provide more pipe cleaners and possibly some scissors to help make the correct shapes.
Tutorial from 123 HOMESCHOOL 4 ME