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Carousel Pump
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In this activity, learners build a carousel toy that spins when pushed down.

Linkages
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This design challenge is an open-ended exploration of linkages, a group of parts connected by hinges, and the types of motion they can create.

Rocket Launchers
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In this activity, learners work with an adult to build a rocket and launcher out of a plastic 2-liter bottle, flexible plastic hose, plastic tubing, toilet paper tube, and duct tape.

Electric Paddle Boat
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In this activity, learners build an electric two-paddle boat using paint paddles, plastic knives, and empty water bottles.

Creepy Crawlers
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Trick your family and friends with this creepy crawler that moves up and down. In this activity, learners construct a circuit and motor device that will move a homemade spider in a spooky way.

Robot Hands
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This activity (on page 2) explores how sensing is part of robotics. Learners try tying their shoes with different constraints.

Build Your Own Robot Arm
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In this lesson, learners develop a robot arm using common materials. Learners explore design, construction, and teamwork, as well as materials selection and use.

Catapult
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In this activity, learners construct their own small catapults using simple materials. Learners follow visual instructions to build their launching device.

Crank It Up
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In this engineering activity, learners explore simple machines and then build cardboard automata using cams.

Soaring Satellites
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Working in small teams, learners try to build a satellite that can float for at least five seconds in the marked area of a vertical wind tube.

Playing with Parachutes
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In this activity, learners explore how parachutes are used to slow down moving objects. Learners work in teams of "engineers" to design and build their own parachutes out of everyday items.

Magnetic Marble Run
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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.

Catapult
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Build a catapult that transforms the potential energy of a twisted rubber band into kinetic energy. Experiment with design variations so that you can hit a target with a projectile.

Build a Big Wheel
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In this activity, learners explore how engineers have developed big wheels or Ferris wheels.

Micro Automata
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In this activity, learners build small animated toys that move.

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

Tinkering with Tops
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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
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In this activity, learners build a hot air balloon using just a few sheets of tissue paper and a hair dryer.

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.

Bottle Cars
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In this activity, learners explore motion, energy, and electricity by constructing bottle cars that run on motors.