What this lesson teaches
This activity helps children understand the concept of weight and balance through hands-on experience.
Math in Action
Balance Scale DIY
Build your own balance scale and explore weight comparison!
Duration20 min
Age GroupAges 7–10
DifficultyBeginner
SubjectMath
See how this hands-on lesson works
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What you need
- Clothes hanger
- Two small plastic cups
- Pencil or stick
- Small weights (like coins or pebbles)
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How the activity runs
- Gather your materials like a hanger and cups.
- Attach two cups to each end of the hanger.
- Balance the hanger on a pencil or stick.
The learning connection
Using a DIY balance scale makes learning engaging and fun. It encourages children to explore scientific concepts through play, enhancing retention and understanding.
Try it with your learner
1. Cut two equal lengths of string, about 30 cm each. 2. Tie one end of each string to the small containers. 3. Tie the other end of both strings to the middle of the plastic hanger. 4. Make sure the containers hang evenly from the hanger. 5. Place weights in one container and compare with the other. 6. What did you notice?