Resource 1: Simple balance

 Background information

 Teacher resource for planning or adapting to use with pupils

These are simple balances you could make to help pupils compare weights.

To make a simple balance you need some string, two plastic pots or lids, two sticks and a base. Fix the sticks as shown in the diagram – so the cross stick is able to move freely. Cut six equal lengths of string – 3 each to attach the plastic pots or lids to either end of the stick as shown in the diagram. Place the objects to be compared in the pots or lids – one in each pot or lid.

Adapted from: Oxford University, Website