How to Make Balance Scales for Weights & Balances in Second Grade Math

Teach kids math and balance with examples.

The concept of weight measurement may be hard to grasp for young minds. But if you use mechanical devices to illustrate the principle of balance and measurement in math, it opens a door in the mind and the concept is more readily absorbed. Second-graders respond readily to action and physical examples. You can make a simple balance mechanism with two Styrofoam cups and some coins or other small objects. Comparing the balance between two objects gives second-graders hands-on experience to understand weight and balance units in math.

Things You'll Need

• 2 books
• 18 inches wire
• 2 Styrofoam cups
• Tape

Instructions

1. Stand two books of equal size on their spines. The spine of the book should be the highest point. Stand them parallel to each other 12 inches apart.

2. Poke the wire through both sides of the cups at a point 3/4 inch from the top. The cups should be able to slide easily along the wire. Place the cups 8 inches apart along the wire.

3. Pick up the wire from both ends. Stretch the wire between the two books. Hold the end of the wire to the top of both spines on both books so that the cups are suspended between the two cups. The cups and wire will droop down slightly. That's OK. Place a piece of tape across the wire to hold it securely on the spines.

4. Place coins in one of the cups while holding it. Place marbles in the other cup while holding it. Let go of the cups. The heavier of the two units will drop down lower, while the lighter cup will slide down the wire.

5. Place more coins or marbles in the lighter cup until they hang equally on the wire to demonstrate weight and balance units of measurements.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with different objects. Compare paperclips to crayons, Legos or other small toys to find out which is heavier.

References

• New Jersey Mathematics Curriculum Framework: Standard 9 Measurement K-12 Overview