Kids will have fun observing speed and distance with a marble run inclined plane. This activity is easy to set up with recycled cardboard, and provides hands-on STEAM learning for kids from toddler to kindergarten.
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This marble run inclined plane is so easy to make, you’ll want to build one right away. Projects like this for kids are not only fun, they promote scientific exploration and observation as kids play.
My first activity with an inclined plane and toy cars was a big success so I decided to create a second one. This time we used marbles and small cups instead of cars to experiment with the slope of an inclined plane.
This simple activity is a fun way to provide learning through play at preschool and kindergarten. Kids get to see how cardboard can be cut and shaped; how tape works to secure materials in place; how a marble rolls down an incline.
Inclined plane activity with marbles
This inclined plane is a STEAM activity. Educators show how the principles of STEAM are incorporated into everyday play.
Kids will think like little scientist as they experiment with materials and observe marbles rolling down the ramp.
STEAM = Science + Technology + Engineering + Art + Math
Here’s how these elements are realized in this marble run activity:
- Science: observing the results of marbles rolling down an inclined plane
- Technology: using tape to secure the cups to the cardboard
- Engineering: designing and setting up the ramp
- Art: choosing colors of tape, marbles, and cups
- Math: using different sizes of marbles; counting small cups
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Materials list:
- large pieces of cardboard
- tape
- marbles
- plastic cups
Instructions to build the inclined plane
The dimensions of the marble run will be determined by the size of the cardboard you use.
We used two pieces measuring 18 in. wide x 30 in. long (46 cm x 76 cm).
You could also use a single piece of cardboard to any length you choose. The length and slope of the inclined plane will vary the outcome of the play.
Step 1. Bend the side edges of the cardboard .
This edge should be approximately 2 – 3 inches (5 – 8 cm) high. It will help prevent the marbles from rolling off the sides of the inclined plane.
Step 2. Set one piece of cardboard on a slant inside the other piece.
The two pieces are secured with tape as shown in the diagram.
Rest the top of the slanted cardboard on a chair or low table to create the incline.
- We tried a small deacon’s bench which is 15.5 inches (40 cm) high. We also tried a low stool which is 11 inches (28 cm) high. The lower height reduced the speed of the marbles. This allowed the marbles to settle into the cups without popping back out.
- You can observe the speed of the marbles and make alterations in the degree of incline as you engage in the activity.
OPTION:
- If you use one long piece of cardboard, make a bend in the middle or near the top. A bend in the cardboard helps reduce the speed of the marble. If it rolls too quickly it is more likely to flip over the side of the track or pop out of the cup.
Step 3. Place small disposable cups at the bottom of the structure.
Extend the masking tape across the cardboard base and into the cups to secure them to the cardboard.
Related: (affiliate link) Learning Resources Magnetic Marble Run
How to play with a simple ramp
Drop a marble or other small ball at the top of the inclined plane and watch it roll down to land in one of the cups.
Options to extend the learning:
- Add numbers or letters to the tops of the cups or to the tape at the front of the cups; call out the numbers as marbles roll into the cups.
- Aim for a certain number; add scores.
- Experiment with different sizes of marbles.
- Increase or decrease the slope of the plane.
- Race two or more marbles at a time.
Inclined plane activity for kids
You can easily create this inclined plane for awesome STEAM play.
Enjoy the benefits of hands-on engagement with a simple material like recycled cardboard!
STEM board on Pinterest for more fun science activities for kids.
Find this activity on:
- Life as Mama Roundup of Marble Runs
- Best of Kid Bloggers Posts for 2015 Pinterest board.
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