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In this activity (posted on March 12, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a spectroscope, a tool used to analyze light and color.

In this optics activity, learners make a "light fountain" from a clear plastic bottle, flashlight, and other simple materials.

In this activity, learners observe what happens when they give a light source like a neon glow lamp a "Bronx Cheer." The lights appear to wiggle back and forth and flicker when learners blow air throu

In this optics activity, learners use glass and water to demonstrate total internal reflection (TIR).

In this activity, learners create a star show and discover how they can prevent light pollution. Using simple materials, learners first design constellation boxes.

In this activity, learners use an old CD to construct a spectroscope, a device that separates light into its component colors.

This is a quick activity (on page 2 of the PDF under Stained Glass Activity) about the "Tyndall effect," the scattering of visible light when it hits very small dispersed particles.

In this activity, learners explore liquid crystals, light and temperature. Using a postcard made of temperature-sensitive liquid crystal material, learners monitor temperature changes.

In this math activity related to light, learners assemble a photometer and use it to estimate the power output of the Sun.

In this activity, learners explore how nanosized structures can create brilliant color.

In this activity, learners explore how polarizing sunglasses can help diminish road glare.

In this activity, learners use a laser pointer, empty soda bottle, rubber plug and water to demonstrate total internal reflection.

In this activity, learners investigate how some butterfly wings get their color.

Have you ever heard of a camera without a lens? In this activity, learners create a pinhole camera out of simple materials. They'll see the world in a whole new way: upside down and backwards!

This is a quick activity (on page 2 of the PDF under Butterfly Wings Activity) that illustrates how nanoscale structures, so small they're practically invisible, can produce visible/colorful effects.

In this activity (posted on March 20, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a stroboscope, a device that exploits the persistence of vision to make moving objects appear slow or stationary.

In this activity, learners construct a device that allows them to look over ledges or around corners.

In this activity, learners use clear nail polish to create a beautiful iridescent pattern on black paper. Learners discover that a thin film creates iridescent, rainbow colors.

In this activity (posted on March 14, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a camera projector to explore lenses and refraction.

In this activity (page 2 of PDF), learners play with a lens and a piece of paper to focus an image on the paper. Learners look at different things, and see how the lenses affect the image.