Paper Gears in Motion

In this video we will make moveable gear wheels using colourful card, straws and paper fasteners. Students will learn about Rotational Motion, Speed and Energy.

Step 1

Mark out 2 circles, approximately 7cm in diameter, on colourful card. You can trace around a round container or use a compass.

Step 2

Find the centre point of your circles and mark out 8 equal sized wedges.

Step 3

Mark out 2cm intervals on a paper straw and cut them so you have 8 equal sized lengths.

Step 4

Glue the 8 pieces of paper straw in place where your lines meet the edge of the circle. You want to have them half on and half off the circle. Leave the glue to set completely. Once the glue has dried, pinch the end of each straw piece so it creates a vertically flattened edge.

Step 5

Use a sharp pencil or scissors to poke a small hole in the centre of your circles. Take one circle and position it on a piece of coloured card. Use a pencil or scissors to gently push through the hole in the centre of the circle through the card underneath. Push a paper fastener through and secure it on the back of the card. Make sure it’s not too tight or your gear won’t turn.

Step 6

Now position the second circle next to the attached circle. The straws need to slightly overlap but the circles can’t be too close together or the gears won’t work. When you think you have the correct position attach the second gear and see if your gears turn. If they don’t you will need to reposition the second gear until you have it in the correct spot.