Optical Illusion Science: Make a Toy That Tricks the Eye
Ms. Sarah, M.Ed. Science Education
Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(2)
Students will learn the science of vision and make their own thaumatrope, or "spinning wonder", toy.
Class experience
US Grade 2 - 4
How do our eyes and our brain work together to see? We will explore the science concept of "persistence of vision" through visuals and a hands-on art project. I will explain the concept and students will have a chance to experience it through some interactive examples. We will investigate how a thaumatrope, or "spinning wonder" toy works. Learners will have a chance to draw and build their own spinning toy(s) to experience persistence of vision in action. We will share what we have made with...
Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of a new science concept through drawing and building their spinning toy.
I taught this concept and activity in the science classroom with elementary students for 8 years. I also helped science-museum goers build their own thaumotropes while teaching at a science museum. It is always so much fun!
To create their thaumatrope: (1-3) 3x5 cards, or paper that can be cut into a similar size (1-3) Drinking straws, paper or plastic [If you don't have straws, an unsharpened pencil or small dowel will also work] Markers, crayons or colored pencils to draw with Scotch tape
Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(2)
Hi! I'm Sarah Benton Feitlinger and I love teaching my passions: science, nature, wildlife, STEM and STEAM, to students in Preschool through 6th grade. I hold a Bachelors degree in Biology and a Masters degree in Science Education. I have almost...
Group Class
$10
per classMeets once
40 min
Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-9
1-6 learners per class
