A Duel Reality-Inspired Activity for All Ages.

A Duel Reality-Inspired Activity for All Ages

Some of the things we come to expect to see in circus performances are: tightrope walkers, acrobats and dancers. What do all of these disciplines have in common? 

Balancing through weight distribution, and at times weight sharing with a partner! In this activity, we will experiment with weight balancing.

Materials

  • A narrow flat long stick (about 12 inches long or more). A ruler will work well. 
  • Something to weight each side of the ruler down. Examples: tape, paper weights, anything near you that has weight. 
  • Two objects of the same height to lift the stick away from your working surface. 
  • A couple of flat popsicle-length craft sticks (or clean popsicle sticks). 
  • Objects with length like craft sticks, pencils and/or rulers that are relatively symmetrical. 
  • Objects that are stackable like blocks, buttons and coins, also relatively symmetrical. 
  • Objects of odd shapes that are asymmetrical like scissors, a fork, a paintbrush and small rocks.

Instructions

Place your long flat stick across two surfaces. We are going to call this stick the “Base.” We are giving the Base height away from your surface. You can do this activity on a table or on the floor.

Starting with longer objects, place them across the horizontal base, making a cross. As you place the objects down in a cross, find the center of gravity of the object. This is the point where both sides are perfectly balanced without you holding it in place.

Next, add weight to the ends of the craft stick without having the objects topple over. As you put the objects on the end, you can gently hold the stick at the bottom with your finger until you find the center of gravity and feel comfortable removing your hand.

Experiment with adding objects of different weights on either side and notice how the center of gravity shifts depending on the weight. You will have to bring the heavier side closer to the center to balance the ends.

For an added challenge, try adding asymmetrical objects and see how the asymmetry affects the weight distribution and center of gravity.

Recommendations

  • The objects should not be so heavy that they will break the stick but should have some substance. 
  • Don’t feel like you have to purchase anything; if you don’t have the exact objects listed above, find substitutes with things you have at home or in your classroom.