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Showing results 1 to 20 of 27
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Carousel Pump
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a carousel toy that spins when pushed down.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-692.jpg?itok=_x-qgMJt)
Magnetic Spinner & Compass
Source Institutions
Learners use shop tools and various materials to construct a magnetic spinner and a compass.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-686.jpg?itok=DAiTGkRA)
Tops
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners discover that some things only stand up while they are spinning.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-259.jpg?itok=72pgq_xc)
Parabola Basketball
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build mini-basketball courts and explore the laws of physics. Learners discover that everything you throw or shoot on earth travels in a parabola.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-261.jpg?itok=K8ieKQmZ)
Kaleidoscope
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build inexpensive kaleidoscopes using transparency paper and foil (instead of mirrors).
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Micro Automata
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build small animated toys that move.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-260.jpg?itok=QMGg2-GJ)
Lever Cowboy
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a figure that moves and "comes to life" when they pull its string.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-276.jpg?itok=ZV861GKw)
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.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-117.jpg?itok=Yq5LvluE)
Mini Zoetrope
Source Institutions
In this activity (posted on March 27, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a mini zoetrope, a device that produces an illusion of action from a rapid succession of static pictures.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-699.jpg?itok=uxJY8ipd)
Bobbing Eyeballs
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners use simple materials and basic tools to construct a special toy to explore pendulums. As the head of the toy bobs one way, the eyeballs bob the other way.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-231.jpg?itok=w0ZmBMV2)
Motor Bird
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a bird that flies in place with help from a motor, wire, and some straws.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-232.jpg?itok=cps56lDc)
Marble Drop Game
Source Institutions
Build your own version of a favorite carnival game, in which a marble races down a maze consisting of rows of nails.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-250.jpg?itok=P2evtlEM)
Magnetic Seesaw
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a seesaw powered by magnets.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-272.jpg?itok=ucHqQWMt)
Sound Automata
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build their own sound machines and explore the interplay of motion and sound.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-264.jpg?itok=azjudSTv)
Floating Head Cup
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners watch a figure "magically" float up through the air.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-270.jpg?itok=AvWDgOMJ)
Tube Zither
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore sound by constructing tube zithers, stringed instruments from Southeast Asia and the South Pacific.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-693.jpg?itok=bg_DzERZ)
Gymnast
Source Institutions
In this physics activity, learners build a toy with a figure that spins around like a gymnast on the high bar.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-694.jpg?itok=yTjZAaSE)
Geometry Construction: Polyhedral Playthings
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners create 3D geometric shapes using straws and pipe cleaners.
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-002-119.jpg?itok=85Dtq5r3)
Bike Wheel Zoetrope
Source Institutions
In this activity (posted on April 18, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a zoetrope, a device that produces an illusion of action from a rapid succession of static pictures, using a 16" bik
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square_100/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-004-236.jpg?itok=gyuijNkm)
Finger Basketball
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build mini-basketball courts using cardboard and measuring spoons. Use this activity to introduce learners to catapults, forces, and levers.