Here at Science Sparks, we love themed science activities and my Fairytale STEM Challenges They are so popular that I thought it would be really fun to create some more. Fairy tale activities and investigations.. First is this collection of Jack and the Beanstalk experiments. You can grow a bean for Jack, build him a zipline to escape the giant, clean up the giant's coins, make a harp, and more!
Grow a bean for Jack
This one is a bit obvious, but it had to be included. Grow a bean plant in a jar so you can see the roots, or in a pot and watch it grow!
Help Jack escape from the giant with a zip line
Jack could have escaped the giant much faster with a zip line from the top of the bean stalk to the ground. A simple garden zipline For a small toy figure it is easy to build and is perfect for learning about friction and the effect of gradient on speed.
There are more instructions in the linked post, but one way to prepare your research is to experiment with different harnesses using pipe cleaners or straws. Another idea is to use different types of ropes for the zip line itself. A rough rope should make for a slower zipline than a smooth rope, since there is more friction between the rope and the object flying downward.
Parachute for Jack
Another way to escape from Jack is with a parachute. We used a boiled egg to represent Jack so we could easily see if he was damaged.
build a bean stalk
Build a bean stalk out of toilet paper, DUPLO bricks, LEGO bricks or other blocks! This is a great team-building STEM activity. Teams can compete to find out who can build the tallest or strongest bean stalk.
Make a chicken life cycle
The giant has a hen that lays golden eggs.
Learn about the life cycle of a chicken with a fun sensory bin or by making a paper plate life cycle.
make a harp
Use a cardboard box and rubber bands to make your own harp! Experiment using different thicknesses of rubber bands to see how the pitch of the sound emitted changes.
Clean the giant's money
Jack steals coins from the giant.
Did you know that you can clean coins with vinegar and salt? This is a very visual scientific activity with obvious results.
More learning about Jack and the Beanstalk
Count the stem of the beans with rainy day mom.
The Imagination Tree has a beautiful Jack and the Beanstalk Storytelling Bag.
Fantastic fun and learning It has a lovely Jack and the Beanstalk sensory bin!
Last updated on February 26, 2024 by Emma Vanstone