For Families


All creatures live in a web of resources that suport or suppress their growth. Create a dynamic model of an insect’s or bird’s world. Suspend a magnetized creature on a pendulum. Add food and shelter (with magnets) that attract the creature and predators and hazards that repel it. The creature navagates a complex and fascinating path.

Ecosystems Magnetic Pendulum

Ecosystems Magnetic Pendulum

Quidditch Magnetic Pendulum

Quidditch Magnetic Pendulum

Parts

Step 1
Fit the metal tin into the base.

Step 2
Run your figure down the length of the pendulum rod so that the feet sit on the magnet.

Step 3
Run the string through your first rubber o-ring, and slip the o-ring over top of the pendulum.

Step 4
Run the other end of the string through your second o-ring, and slide that one over the short dowel.

Step 5
Run the other end of that dowel into the drilled end of the pendulum arm.

Step 6
Fold the translucent paper in half and sketch out your butterfly wings.

Step 7
Cut the wings out and pin them in place.

Step 8
Run the thick arm through the wooden donut and onto the base.

Step 9
Push the pendulum arm onto the end and cap it with the wooden bead.

Step 10
Now pull the string tight so that the butterfly "floats" above the stage.

Step 11
The colored end of your toothpick is an aerosol spray. Cut it off evenly, dab glue on the end, and push it into the "spray can"'s hole.

Step 12
The other end is your bird's beak. Glue it and push it into place, and prepare the wings with a dab of glue each.

Step 13
Put the aerosol spray in the remaining hole in the base and glue the bird of prey beneath its tree. Add flowers. Use your magnets to attract and repel the butterfly to elements of his environment.