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Kaleidoscope

Kal3

How To

activity time 20mins

A kaleidoscope works by reflecting light. As you turn the tube, you can see patterns of colours at the other end of the tube.

Gather all the other materials listed that you require.

Follow the instructions on this webpage to complete activity.

You Will need

  • Pringles Tube
  • Extra End Cap from Pringles Tube
  • Silver Card
  • Permanent Marker
  • Sticky Tape or Glue
  • Pencil
  • Scissors
  • Wrapping Paper or Plain paper
  • Tin Opener

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Suitable For
  • Rainbows-4-7yrs 4-7yrs
  • Brownies-7-10yrs 7-10yrs

Instructions

  • Kaleidoscope

    Using a tin opener cut off the metal end of the tube and discard.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Cut the paper to 245mm x 245mm. If you are using plain paper, you can draw your own design.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Cover the outside of the tub with your paper. Start by sticking one edge of the paper to the tube.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Roll the paper around the tube and secure with tape.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Place the clear cap onto one end of your tube and stick it down using the tape. Best to stick this onto the end you cut off.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Using your silver card cut into strips of 250mm x 62mm, place 3 strips inside the tube with the shiny silver side facing inwards.

  • Kaleidoscope

    Using the other clear end cap start to make colourful shapes. Triangles work well. The smaller the shape the better effect you will have.

  • Kaleidoscope

    And finally place this cap into the other end of the tube. Look through the clear end and at the same time rotate the tube. Look at all the pretty colours!

Look At All The Pretty Colours!

Invented in 1816 by Scotsman Dr. David Brewster, not just a toy for entertainment but kaleidoscopes are used by artists and fashion designers to produce beautiful patterns.

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