oshc activities
After School Quick STEM / One-Sheet Paper Chain

One-Sheet Paper Chain

Teams try to make the longest possible paper chain from a single sheet, planning how to cut and join strips for maximum length.

How to run it

  1. Give each child or pair one sheet of paper, scissors and glue or tape.
  2. Explain the goal: the longest chain from that one sheet only.
  3. Allow a set time to plan, cut and join links.
  4. Lay chains side by side and measure them.
  5. Discuss which strategies made the longest chains.

You will need

  • A4 paper
  • scissors
  • glue sticks or sticky tape
  • measuring tape
Make it easier or harderYounger children can use pre-drawn cutting lines; older children can be given a time limit or less tape.
SafetySupervise scissor use.
My Time Our Place · Outcome 4Children plan, estimate and measure, developing problem-solving and mathematical thinking.

Fits these theme days

After School Quick STEMPaper Crafts DayChallenge DayOne-Minute Challenge DayChristmas

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