Activity

Balloon shrinking writing

Summary
Write on an inflated balloon, then deflate and shrink the writing.
Science content
Chemistry: States of Matter, Properties of Materials (K-7)
Lessons activity is in
Materials
  • balloon
  • mini binder clip
  • pen that writes on balloons e.g. permanent marker, various sizes
Procedure

Inflate the balloon - do not tie it off.
Hold the balloon closed with a small binder clip.
Writing a message/name and draw on the balloon. Try fat and thin permanent markers.
Deflate the balloon.
Marvel at the beautiful tiny writing!

Notes

Experiment more with balloon elasticity and bouncing: https://www.howtosmile.org/resource/smile-000-000-004-107 (needs some testing and research).

Grades taught
Gr K
Gr 1
Gr 2
Gr 3
Gr 4
Gr 5