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3-Dimensional Science Activities for Third-Graders

There are a plethora of options when choosing an activity based on science that incorporates a three-dimensional theme. Finding science activities for third-graders that are educational and enjoyable can be a daunting task. Making this activity more hands-on by adding a three-dimensional element is a practical way to keep the attention of third-grade minds.
  1. Solar System Model

    • Consider making a model of the solar system as a 3-D science activity. Using Styrofoam balls, paint them like the planets in the solar system, complete with the sun. Using wood dowels that can be purchased at a craft or hardware store, put one end in each planet and the opposite in the sun. Suspend the model by attaching a string into the top of the sun and label each planet for presentation.

    3-D Animal Cell

    • Duplicate an animal cell with items that can be found at home. Pour a mix of unset lemon Jell-O into a plastic sandwich bag. Add other items representing cell parts, such as plums for the nucleus, pieces of lasagna as endoplasmic reticulum and tiny shirt buttons as vacuoles. Mimic the Golgi bodies' oval shape by cutting out small pieces of cardboard. Sprinkle pepper inside the bag, representing ribosomes which float freely in the cell. Place the bag in the refrigerator, closing with a twist tie, until the Jell-O sets. When the mold is done, transport it in a sturdy, plastic container for presentation.

    Magnetic Fields

    • For this project, gather a magnet, a bottle of baby oil, scissors and steel wool. Take scissors and cut off pieces of steel wool, placing shavings inside the full baby oil bottle. Run the magnet over the label and watch the steel wool as the magnet attracts it. This 3-D dimensional activity demonstrates how a magnetic field can be created, and the placement of the steel wool fibers helps illustrate this point. Repeat this activity using two magnets, one on each side of the bottle, and record the results.

    Mouse in a Maze

    • Create a maze for the mouse in a large box or plastic container, making sure the sides of the run can be interchanged. At the end of the maze, place food for the mouse to hunt for. Run seven to 10 different tests, changing the maze each time and timing the mouse. Record the results for when the mouse had the best time or if he reacted differently with different mazes.

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