Explore fantastic math with an easy-to-make Mobius strip. Learn what a Mobius strip is and how it works, and build your own at home or in the classroom. Grab the free printable template. Play with math with this fun and easy STEAM project for kids!
What Is A Mobius Strip?
A Mobius strip is a 2-dimensional shape made by taking a long strip of paper and giving it a half twist, then sticking the ends together to form a loop. It is also known as a Mobius loop, named after the German mathematician August Ferdinand Mobius, who discovered it in 1858.
The Mobius strip is one-sided and nonorientable, which means it has only one surface and one edge. If you move your finger along the strip, you will return to where you started. The math involved is quite complicated!
This makes it unique and interesting for mathematicians to study. It can explain many mathematical concepts, such as topology, geometry, and symmetry.
The Mobius strip is important in many practical applications, such as the design of antennas, belts, and conveyor belts. Overall, the Mobius strip is a fascinating shape with many interesting properties and uses.
STEM Activities For Kids
So you might ask, what does STEM actually stand for? STEM is science, technology, engineering, and math. The most important thing you can take away from this, is that STEM is for everyone!
Yes, kids of all ages can work on STEM projects and enjoy STEM lessons. STEM activities are great for group work, too!
STEM is everywhere! Just look around. The simple fact that STEM surrounds us is why it’s so essential for kids to be a part of, use, and understand STEM.
From the buildings you see in town, the bridges that connect places, the computers we use, the software programs that go with them, and the air we breathe, STEM is what makes it all possible.
Interested in STEM plus ART? Check out all our STEAM Activities!
Engineering is an important part of STEM. What is engineering in kindergarten and elementary? Well, it’s putting together simple structures and other items and in the process, learning about the science behind them. Essentially, it’s a whole lot of doing!
STEM Resources To Get You Started
Here are a few resources to help you introduce STEM more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.
- Engineering Design Process Explained
- What Is An Engineer
- Engineering Vocab
- Questions for Reflection (get them talking about it!)
- BEST STEM Books for Kids
- 14 Engineering Books for Kids
- Jr. Engineer Challenge Calendar (Free)
- Must Have STEM Supplies List
Free Printable Mobius Strip Template
Make a Mobius strip today with this free printable template with instructions.
How To Make Mobius Strip
Supplies:
- Template
- Scissors
- Markers
- Tape
Instructions:
STEP 1: Print the Mobius strip template.
STEP 2: Color your design pattern with markers.
STEP 3: Cut out the strip.
STEP 4: Connect the two ends together to form a ring, but FIRST, make one twist in the strip before you connect it.
STEP 5: Now pinch somewhere along the strip and then use scissors to make one cut.
STEP 6: Pull the scissors back out and then reinsert them at the top of the cut you just made. Now cut along the length of the strip.
STEP 7: What did you find when you cut around the entire circle? Did it behave as you predicted?
More Hands-On Math Activities For Kids
Explore what is heavy and light with this What Weighs More activity.
Teach symmetry with basic LEGO bricks.
Enjoy fun Pi Day activities for young and older kids too!
Learn about the Fibonacci sequence with simple printable activities.
The Walk Through Paper STEM challenge is actually all about perimeter.
Measure the length of everyday objects.
100 STEM Projects For Kids
Click here to njoy tons of easy and do-able STEM activities for all ages!
