Inflatables

Inflatables is an open-ended design activity that focuses on 3D spatial reasoning. In this activity, learners use recycled materials and simple tools to create inflatable creatures or sculptures. This activity is adaptable for a wide range of age. For example, older learners can make and test complex creations, while younger learners are happy with decorating a small bag and then launching it off the fan.

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activity video:

Inflatables

subject

age range

duration

materials

• Plastic bags and/or plastic sheets (recycled plastic shopping bags, new bags in a range of colors, 2 mil plastic sheeting, mylar, cellophane)

• Scotch (transparent) tape rolls

• 2” x 18”-24” Tag (poster) board strips for base

• Large paperclips

• (Optional) Binder clips

• Staples and stapler

• Scissors (adult scissors with sharp blades work best)

• Utility knives

• Permanent markers (dark for light plastic, and silver metallic for dark or black plastics)

• Fan(s) (that can blow air vertically)

• (Optional) Rulers, circle forms/stencils

• (Optional) Card stock sheets

• (Optional) Blow dryers

• (Optional) Wire

• (Optional) Paper towel and toilet paper rolls (cut up into smaller rings)

• (Optional) Iron &

• butcher paper (for plastic fusing)

• (Optional) Decoration supplies (feathers, googly eyes, string/yarn)

• (Optional) Example/inspiration photos of real world inflatables (blimps, hot air balloons, etc.)

safety issues

Don’t let young children use scissors or utility knives; assist/monitor older children when they’re using scissors or knives.

keywords

inflatable, balloons, spatial reasoning, engineering design, three dimensions, open-ended activity, team activity, kinetic sculpture, inexpensive, recycled materials

source

Science Museum of Minnesota