Maker Monday: Gravity Maze

Create a Gravity Maze with this Maker Monday project. Kids have fun watching the rolling marble move from level to level to the bottom of the maze they designed.

Construction is simple and the supplies are basic. But with markers or crayons, the maze can be embellished with drawings to give it a really spectacular look.

Making subsequent mazes will allow for experimentation. What happens, for example, when a level is too steep — or too flat? How does rolling two marbles — or more — change the speed?

This idea comes from a Remake Learning session at Avonworth Primary Center.

Supplies:

Shoebox

Jumbo craft sticks

Glue gun

Marbles

Markers or crayons

Little ones will need an adult helping out. Setting the shoebox upright, cut a hole in the back top corner of the shoebox. Many athletic shoes come in boxes that already have a hole, saving this step.

With the glue gun, squeeze glue along the edge of a craft stick.

Glue the craft stick in the box, beginning in the corner with the hole, giving it a slightly downward direction. Add the next on the opposite side where the marble will drop. Continue until you reach the bottom of the box.

Allow the glue to cool and dry — and you’re ready for action! Stand the box upright and drop a marble in the hole. Then, watch it make its way down the maze.

You will find more Maker Monday projects and other fun ideas on the Kidsburgh Activities page.