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Avalanche
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In this geology activity, learners create a model using a mixture of salt and sand inside a CD case. When the case is tilted or inverted, the mixture dramatically sorts into a layered pattern.
The Pull of the Planets
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In this activity, learners model the gravitational fields of planets on a flexible surface.
Space Stations: Sponge Spool Spine
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In this activity, learners simulate what happens to a human spine in space by making Sponge Spool Spines (alternating sponge pieces and spools threaded on a pipe cleaner).
Make a Model Caldera
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In this quick activity (page 2 of PDF under GPS: Lava Flow Activity), learners will model how large depressions near the top of a volcano are formed by using an inflating and deflating balloon submerg
Exploring the Nanoworld with LEGO Bricks: Structures at the Nanoscale
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In this activity (pages 7-16), learners model various crystal structures with LEGOs. This activity also contains additional links that explain how to create other crystal structures.
Build a Big Wheel
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In this activity, learners explore how engineers have developed big wheels or Ferris wheels.
Engineer an Octopus Suction Pad
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In this engineering design challenge, learners build an octopus-inspired suction pad that can grab an object and hold it tightly in the air.
Hand Spin Helicopter
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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.
Human-powered Orrery
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In this space science activity, learners work together to create a human-powered orrery to model the movements of the four inner planets.
The Great Plankton Race
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In this activity, learners are challenged to design a planktonic organism that will neither float like a cork nor sink like a stone.
Motor Bird
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In this activity, learners build a bird that flies in place with help from a motor, wire, and some straws.
Full of Hot Air: Hot Air Balloon Building
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In this activity, learners create a model of a hot air balloon using tissue paper and a hairdryer. Educators can use this activity to introduce learners to density and its role in why things float.
Cook Up a Comet
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In this activity (on page 5 of PDF), learners use dry ice and household materials to make scientifically accurate models of comets.
Bridge the Gap
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Learners work in groups to construct bridges using stale marshmallows and toothpicks.
Draggin' Boats
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Learners design, build, and test models of "dragon boats" made from up to three milk cartons.
Stomp Rocket
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In this activity, learners build rockets and shoot them into the air by stomping on the plastic bottle launchers.
Roller Coasters
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In this activity learners will build roller coasters and test them using small balls or marbles.
Air Cannon
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In this activity, learners create air cannons out of everyday materials. Learners use their air cannons to investigate air as a force and air pressure.
FlyBy Math: Distance-Rate-Time Problems in Air Traffic Control
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In this small-group activity, learners assume the roles of pilots, air traffic controllers, and NASA scientists to solve five Air Traffic Control (ATC) problems.
Echo Base Bobsleds
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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.