Here at Science Sparks, we love themed science activities, and my Fairy Tale STEM challenges are so popular that I thought it’d be great fun to create some more Fairy Tale activities and investigations. First up is this collection of Jack and the Beanstalk experiments. You can grow a bean for Jack, build him a zip wire to escape from the giant, clean the giant’s coins, make a harp and more!
Grow a Bean for Jack
This one is a bit obvious, but it had to be included. Grow a bean plant in a jar so you can see the roots, or in a pot and watch it grow!
Help Jack escape the giant with a zip line
Jack could’ve escaped the giant much faster with a zip line from the top of the beanstalk to the ground. A simple garden zip line for a small toy figure is easy to construct and perfect for learning about friction and the effect of gradient on speed.
There are more instructions in the linked post, but one way to set up the investigation is to experiment with different harnesses using pipe cleaners or straws. Another idea is to use different types of strings for the zip line itself. A rough string should make a slower zip line than a smooth string, as there is more friction between the string and the object flying down.
Parachute for Jack
Another way for Jack to escape is with a parachute. We used a boiled egg to represent Jack so we could easily see if he was damaged.
Build a Beanstalk
Build a beanstalk with toilet rolls, DUPLO bricks, LEGO or other blocks! This is a great team-building STEM activity. Teams can compete to find out who can build the tallest or strongest beanstalk.
Make a Chicken Life Cycle
The giant has a hen that lays golden eggs.
Learn about the life cycle of a chicken with a fun sensory bin or by making a paper plate life cycle.
Make a Harp
Use a cardboard box and elastic bands to make your own harp! Experiment using different thicknesses of elastic bands to see how it changes the pitch of the sound made.
Clean the Giant’s Money
Jack steals coins from the giant.
Did you know you can clean coins using vinegar and salt? This is a very visual science activity with obvious results.
More Jack and the Beanstalk learning
Count up the beanstalk with Rainy Day Mum.
The Imagination Tree has a gorgeous Jack and the Beanstalk storytelling bag.
Fantastic Fun and Learning has a lovely Jack and the Beanstalk sensory bin!
Last Updated on February 26, 2024 by Emma Vanstone
