Updated 5/14/24
It seems like every day is a holiday these days, but we’re not complaining. Let’s take a look at a day that really measures up that contributes to a fun STEM activity students can assemble then race in classrooms, after-school programs, camps, and more.
A Little Tape Measure History
On July 14, 1868, Albert J. Fellows of Connecticut revolutionized an item we keep in our toolbox with his patent for a spring-click tape measure. While not the first to invent the spring-click design, his patent had significant improvements compared to previous designs and is similar to our modern version.
So now we celebrate National Tape Meausure Day every July 14 as a way to celebrate Fellows’s improvement on this handy tool that is utilized by many.
Creative Use of Tape Measures
We use tape measures a little differently as a hands-on learning tool.
Check out our Toolbox Racer Kit. With this simple and easy-to-assemble vehicle, students can learn many STEM concepts including energy transfer, potential and kinetic energy, and other science principles such as:
- Tension – When a student pulls the tape from the tape measure, they stretch the spring inside, and potential energy is stored.
- Compression – When students press the button and release the tape back into the case, they are creating compression and kinetic energy is released.
It’s definitely hands-on, minds-on with this one. Be sure to watch this video of educators like you who reviewed the toolbox racer and what students can learn from this unique racing kit.
As you travel through your 365 days of every year, be on the lookout for special days that you can tie back to STEM and your class. You never know what you’ll find! Silly or scientific, either way, days like today rule!
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