Many people recognize March 17 as St. Patrick's Day, but it's likely that far fewer people know that the rubber band was also patented on that date. The credit for this stretchy wonder goes to Stephen Perry who patented the item in 1845. Today, most rubber bands are made from a natural rubber known as latex, which comes from rubber trees grown in warm, moist climates.
In addition to its practical use of holding items together, there are several ways to incorporate rubber bands into engaging lesson plans. Try some of these activities with your student, all of which can be completed using common household items.
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