Do you play kites? Kites have been a toy for thousands of years. They come in a variety of designs. The wide winged bird, the long-tailed dragons, the spinning metallic stars, the cartoon characters…. They dance with your hands in the sky! Do you wonder how to make kites by yourself? Actually, it is quite simple. You’ll need:
two lightweight, smooth sticks, one 3 feet long, the other 2 feet;
a large plastic trash bag, cut open;
a long strip of lightweight cloth or plastic for the tail;
scissors; strong tape; a very long string
Then follow these steps:
Step 1: Form a cross shape with the sticks. Wrap tape around the sticks where they meet.
Step 2: Cut off a 4-foot piece of string. Tape each end of the string to each end of the long stick. This string is called the bridle. Tie one end of the rest of string to the middle of the bridle.
Step 3: Lay the cross on the open plastic bag. Cut a diamond shape around it. Make sure to cut the diamond shape wider than the ends of the sticks.
Step 4: Fold the corners of the diamond over the ends of the sticks. Tape the corners tightly to the sticks.
Step 5: For a tail, tape the strip of cloth or plastic to the bottom of the kite.
When you are ready, remember to choose an open, safe place to fly your kite. Don’t fly your kite near power lines. Keep away from trees, roads, and airports. Don’t fly a kite in the rain or when you hear thunder. Be sure nothing is on the ground to trip over. Have a fun!
Activities:
1. Find ten words that rhyme with kite. Then make a story with the new words.
2. Besides the diamond shape, can you make other shapes of kites? Have a try. Then watch the video to learn interesting explanations about Benjamin Franklin and his kite.
