Make A Sundial: Project Instructions, Materials List + More

DIY Sundial Science Activity | Outdoor STEM | No Prep Printable

Introduce students to ancient timekeeping with this hands-on Sundial-Making Activity Sheet! Perfect for exploring earth science, solar observation, and early engineering skills, this printable takes learners through the creation of a working sundial using simple household items.

What’s Included:

• Step-by-step sundial construction instructions
• Material list with visual tips and tricks
• Historical context about ancient Egyptian sundials
• Built-in survival & outdoor science connections
• Aligned to everyday STEM and exploration skills

Skills Reinforced:

• Earth rotation & shadows

• Latitude & angle measurement

• Reading compass directions

• Time-telling with the sun

• Ancient technology & history

Black-and-white, single page – great for printing, copying, and low-prep use!

Use it for:

• STEM days & outdoor science
• Earth Day or summer camp activities
• Homeschool projects
• Nature center or museum education

Product Key:

• No Prep
• Easy to copy and print (black and white, standard size)
• Use: Field Trips, Classrooms, Nature Centers, Zoos & Aquariums
• Not Grade Specific
• Multiple learning styles
• Independent
• Independent or small groups
• Materials listed
• Instructions listed
• Gamification learning
• Great for reluctant readers

Creating a sundial can align with several Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

3-PS2-4: Objects and Materials

- Students can design and build a sundial, observing how shadows change throughout the day based on the position of the sun.

4-ESS1-1: Earth’s Place in the Universe

- Students can use the sundial to understand how the Earth's rotation affects the position of the sun and timekeeping.

❤️This resource has been donated to educators by CreativeBrainsGrowHere.org 

Follow on social media @CreativeBrainsGrowHere ❤️ Donate Here