Search Results
Showing results 41 to 60 of 179
Kaleidoscope
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build inexpensive kaleidoscopes using transparency paper and foil (instead of mirrors).
Magnetic Marble Run
Source Institutions
Learners explore magnetism and motion as they build a simple marble run. Learners test different arrangements of plastic and cardboard tubes, bottles, and cups on a magnetic board.
Reusable Rockets
Source Institutions
This activity (located on page 3 of the PDF under GPS: Garbology Activity) is a full inquiry investigation into design optimization using recycled materials.
Micro Automata
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build small animated toys that move.
Lever Cowboy
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a figure that moves and "comes to life" when they pull its string.
Newton's Cradle
Source Institutions
Build your own version of the classic physics toy using simple materials.
Tinkering with Tops
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore the history, design and motion of spinning tops. Learners work in teams of "engineers" to design and build their own tops out of everyday items.
Hot Air Balloon
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a hot air balloon using just a few sheets of tissue paper and a hair dryer.
Hand Spin Helicopter
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build helicopters and launchers using wooden dowels and scrap paper. Use this activity to explore rotational motion and kinetic and potential energy.
Gravity Fountains
Source Institutions
This activity (located on page 3 of the PDF under GPS: Glaciers Activity) is a full inquiry investigation into the forces of gravity and air pressure.
What is a Fossil?
Source Institutions
In this activity about dinosaurs, learners explore how and why fossils form. First, learners are introduced to dinosaur fossils by reading the book "Bones, Bones, Dinosaur Bones" by Byron Barton.
LEGO® Chemical Reactions
Source Institutions
This activity uses LEGO® bricks to represent atoms bonding into molecules and crystals. The lesson plan is for a 2.5 hour workshop (or four 45-minute classes).
Bottle Cars
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore motion, energy, and electricity by constructing bottle cars that run on motors.
Designing a Wall
Source Institutions
In this engineering activity (page 5 of PDF), young learners investigate how materials and design contribute to the strength of a structure, particularly walls.
Programming Languages: Harold the Robot
Source Institutions
In this activity related to computer programming, learners give directions to a "robot" (either an adult or another learner) and find out which instructions the robot is able to follow, and how their
Buzzing Bee
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore sound by constructing an instrument toy that buzzes when you swing it.
Silly Putty Investigation
Source Institutions
In this activity (located on page 7 of PDF), learners explore how Silly Putty was first invented and then attempt to make a batch of their own.
Odd Man Out
Source Institutions
In this math game (Page 14 of the Are You Game? PDF), learners determine the probability of getting an even versus an odd product using the numbers on a regular deck of cards.
Achieving Orbit
Source Institutions
In this Engineering Design Challenge activity, learners will use balloons to investigate how a multi-stage rocket, like that used in the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission, can propel a sat
Toasty Wind
Source Institutions
In this quick activity, learners use a toaster to investigate the source for the Earth's wind. Learners hold a pinwheel above a toaster to discover that rising heat causes wind.