What Happens Next? Festive STEM Experiments for Curious Minds
What happens when a balloon meets polystyrene beads? Will a Christmas pudding behave as expected? How can a hidden message suddenly appear?
These are just some of the questions explored in a collection of festive “What Happens Next?” experiments by David Featonby and Urszula Rybałtowska. Using everyday items commonly found in many homes during the holiday season, the activities demonstrate scientific principles that feature in school curricula while encouraging prediction, discussion and scientific thinking.
Here you can download the PDF-presentation with the instructions for free: What happens Next? - Christmas Experiments
The presentation includes eight simple experiments covering topics such as:
- Frictional forces
- Moments and Centre of Mass
- Air pressure
- Electrostatics
- Friction and Newton’s Laws
- Moment of inertia
- Refraction
- Balanced and unbalanced forces
The activities are suitable for a wide range of age groups, from younger learners to senior students. Teachers can use them as a quick demonstration at the end of a lesson, combine them into a festive end-of-term quiz, or even encourage students to try them at home during the holidays.
The experiments also provide excellent opportunities for students to take on the role of presenter themselves, whether during end-of-term events, or informal science activities with family and friends.
Whether you are looking for a seasonal classroom activity or a fun way to spark scientific discussions, these festive challenges all begin with the same simple question:
What happens next? 🎄🔬
The experiments at a glance:
- Christmas Basket – Frictional forces
- Christmas Box – Moments and centre of mass
- Two Balloons (Parts 1 & 2) – Air pressure
- Clear Balloons and Polystyrene Beads – Electrostatics
- Inertia – Friction and Newton’s Laws
- Christmas Pudding Catch – Moment of inertia and friction
- Water Beads and Christmas Message – Refraction
- Slinky Drop – Balanced and unbalanced forces
A perfect reminder that some of the most memorable STEM lessons can start with simple materials, a surprising result, and a little curiosity.
You are still looking for more inspiration? Find the experiments above and many more in our Webinar-Recordings:
Share this page