Think big by thinking small, very small, during NanoDays. NanoDays is a growing, coast to coast festival of educational programs about nanoscale science and engineering, and the potential impact of nano research and products on the future. Howtosmile.org has lots of nano-themed activities to help you expand or launch your own NanoDays explorations.
How can you help learners visualize something too small to see? Balloon models! Learners help create a Balloon Nanotubes Tabletop structure to understand the nanoscale structure and properties of carbon nanotubes. They learn that nanotubes are extremely strong and have interesting electrical properties, which is one reason scientists are studying them so intensely.
Nano Scavenger Hunt gets individual learners or teams searching out and identifying nanoscale objects and phenomena all around them. Learners take on a "NanoBlitz Challenge," spending a set amount of time on a hunt for all things nano, both natural and human-made.
Visit the nanozone online exhibit from UC Berkeley's Lawrence Hall of Science to "meet" nanoscientists and read nanocomix about how they got inspired, even as kids, to think big about thinking small. Over 200 science museums, research centers, and universities will offer activities and special NanoDays programs across the country. To get involved or find a NanoDays sponsoring organization near you, visit the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network website.