Kaleidoscopes create a limitless number of temporary works of art.
According to legend, kaleidoscopes were first used in ancient Egypt. However, it is Sir David Brewster who generally receives credit for inventing the kaleidoscope in 1816. Brewster crafted his kaleidoscopes from fine woods and select materials, but you can make them from materials you'd find around the house.
Classroom teachers can incorporate kaleidoscope making into an art, science or an earth science unit. In a science project, they serve as in introduction to optics. In earth science, they demonstrate how some materials can be recycled into works of art rather than end up in a landfill.
Instructions
1. Cut three strips measuring 3 inches by 1 3/8 inches from the CDs with the utility knife. Place them together so that they form a triangular tube with the shiny side facing in. Run strips of masking tape around the edges. Insert the triangular tube into the 3-inch toilet paper roll.
2. Cut the toilet paper roll to a length of 3 inches with your scissors. Put the 1-inch piece to the side.
3. Draw two concentric circles on the poster board with the compass. The outer circle has a diameter of 1 5/8 inches, the inner 1/4 inch. Cut out both circles and fasten this ring to one end of the 3-inch tube with masking tape.
4. Draw two 1 5/8-inch circles on the clear plastic film with the compass. Cut out both circles. Tape one circle to one end of the 1-inch piece of toilet paper roll. Put five to 10 colored beads into the cup you have just created. Tape the other circle to the cup's top.
5. Tape the kaleidoscope's 3-inch section to its 1-inch section so that you have one 4-inch long tube. Cover this tube with your decorative contact paper.
