Things You'll Need
36 inches by 12 inches piece of styrofoam
Styrofoam glue
Styrofoam cutting tool
Gold paint
Paint brush
Ruler
Pen
Play sand (optional)
Model building is a great hands-on way for kids to learn about the world they live in. This styrofoam pyramid project has been a classic for decades because it gives school-aged kids the opportunity to design one of the great wonders of the world.
This activity is very straight forward but does require some adult supervision, as well as some patience. So set aside a little time and get ready to create something truly fantastic with your child.
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Instructions
Step 1
Along with a 36 by 12 piece of styrofoam, gold paint, and a ruler, you'll also need a styrofoam cutting tool and styrofoam glue (both of which can be found at craft stores) for this project. Please see the last slide for an itemized list of tools and materials.
Step 2
Use your ruler to trace out 9 squares and 3 rectangles onto the styrofoam, using this photo as a guide for placement. When done, you should have squares that measure 1 inch by 1 inch, 2 by 2, 3 by 3, 4 by 4, 5 by 5, 7 by 7, 8 by 8, 9 by 9, 10 by 10, as well as three rectangles that each measure 2 by 6.
Step 3
Use a sawing motion with the styrofoam cutting tool to evenly cut out each square and rectangle. Because this tool is sharp, this step requires adult supervision.
Step 4
Squeeze a small amount of styrofoam glue onto each corner and the center of the 10 by 10 square. Center the 9 by 9 square on top of it and push down.
Apply styrofoam glue to the top of the 9 by 9 square, center the 8 by 8 square on top and push down. Continue doing this with progressively smaller squares until the pyramid is complete. Note: to create the 6 by 6 section, glue the three 2 by 6 rectangles side by side.
Step 5
Use a blotting motion with the paint brush to apply gold paint over the entire pyramid.
Step 6
Sprinkle play sand over the pyramid for added dimension and realism.
Tip
Styrofoam is very absorbent so you'll need to use a lot of paint to completely cover it.
To transport your pyramid, glue it to an additional piece of styrofoam, or white poster board, painted with the gold paint.
Warning
The foam cutting tool should be used with adult supervision.
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