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In this activity, learners build a mini crank machine to make a bird "fly." This engineering activity introduces learners to automata, rotational motion, cranks and cams.

In this activity, learners build a mini dancing robot. This engineering activity introduces learners to electricity, circuits, switches, conductivity, and motors.

In this fun hands-on activity learners explore a simple machine: the lever. What happens to a load when you multiply the length of a lever? Find out here!

In this activity, learners explore how a flashlight works, showing the electric circuit and switch functions of this everyday household item.

In this activity, learners explore the concept of how brakes can stop or slow mechanical motion.

In this activity, learners explore how a hydraulic pump works. Learners work in teams to design and build a unique water fountain that employs a hydraulic pump.

In this activity, learners explore computer programming and the impact of computers on society. Learners build and test a program to turn a light on and off using an Arduino board.

In this design challenge, learners will create their own roller coaster using household objects for the track and a marble or small ball as their cart.

In this activity, learners build a figure that moves and "comes to life" when they pull its string.

In this activity, learners build a bird that flies in place with help from a motor, wire, and some straws.

In this activity, learners build their own sound machines and explore the interplay of motion and sound.

The goal of this activity is to build a miniature bobsled that is either the fastest or the slowest. Learners use recycled materials to design, build, and test their bobsled on a bobsled track.

This activity (on page 2 of the PDF under GEMS Activity) is a full inquiry investigation into technology design and testing.

In this activity, learners explore trebuchet design. Teams of learners construct trebuchets from everyday materials.

In this activity, learners explore accuracy and precision.

In this design challenge activity, learners build a shock-absorbing system that will protect two “astronauts” when they land.

The goal of this activity is to design the fastest sailboat or one that carries the most treasure.

In this activity, learners review the history of gumball machines and explore potential and kinetic energy, while working in teams to build a gumball slide.

In this activity, learners make an electromagnet motor to demonstrate the most basic method of changing electrical energy into mechanical energy.

In this activity, learners explore moving air and the physics of lift and drag by constructing homemade wind tunnels.