Where We Got The Idea: This find from Can Can Dancer. It inspired us to make wind chimes with students as they explored sound. Our version is on the right! We had students create wind chimes at a summer camp that had a multiple age range (6-15). The students bent wire hangers and tied different objects to it. Then we discussed:
How close to tie the objects so they would hit each other when the wind blew.
What objects made a “clunky” sound when they hit each other.
What sounded softer. What sounded louder. And why.
Finally we created hypotheses about these discoveries. Kids were measuring, discussing, physics, using the scientific method, and the older students were helping the younger ones.
How To Do It: Go to your local re-use store and look for small metal objects that could be tied. Old silverware, metal washers and jingle bells work great. Ask other parents if they can donate old keys or other metal objects they have laying around. A wire hanger (the ones you get from the dry cleaners) can be the base for items to be hung from.
Our best advice to you... get creative and have fun!
Enjoy!
How do wind chimes inspire you in your teaching practice?