This simple activity is a great place to start an investigation into static electricity. By limiting the materials and ensuring that the charging is via conduction, kids can deduce rightly that like charges repel.

Written instructions are designed to go straight into students hands so you can literally print and go— writing prompts help focus student writing and lab sheets are available for students who need more structure and support. 

Concepts Addressed
• Static charges develop when unlike materials come in close contact.
• Like charges repel

Materials Needed
balloons, string, cotton or wool cloth (flannel or soft, fuzzy cloths work best)

Time Required
This lab takes about 30 mins.
 
Student Sheets
• Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting 

Answer Keys and Teacher Notes address most questions and issues that might arise in this study—you shouldn’t have to do any outside research unless you want to.

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Connect with me: If you have questions or problems, please let me know and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

 

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