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Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
Vision, perception
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDrcVgKGp_0
Google Classroom

Introduction

It's probably difficult to imagine a time with no television, no movies, and no cartoons. But believe it or not, those times weren't so long ago! What did those kids do when they couldn't watch movies? One of the most popular toys during that time was a great-grandfather of the modern cartoon. This toy was called a "thaumatrope," and in this activity you're going to make (and test) your own thaumatrope to learn about how vision works!

Credits

Megan Arnett, PhD, Science Buddies
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Next: Materials

Materials

  • White cardstock paper
  • Grey and blue markers
  • Clear tape
  • Glue
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Compass
    Materials needed for the thaumatrope activity.
Next: Instructions

Reviews

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Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
Vision, perception
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