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

Learners use shop tools and various materials to construct a magnetic spinner and a compass.

In this activity, learners discover that some things only stand up while they are spinning.

In this activity, learners create a traditional Mexican noisemaker (a matraca) using cardboard, craft sticks, and a wooden dowel.

In this activity, learners build a machine made of craft sticks to multiply the levering motion of their hands and create a device that bends and extends.

In this activity, learners construct a simple game to test their hand-eye coordination and steadiness of hand.

In this up-cycling activity, learners recycle plastic bags and repurpose them into useful wallets.

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

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

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

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.

In this activity, learners build a bird that flies in place with help from a motor, wire, and some straws.

In this activity, learners construct a traditional handicraft toy that illustrates a motion commonly associated with violins and earthquakes.

In this activity, learners build a mini crank machine to make a bird "fly." This engineering activity introduces learners to automata, rotational motion, cranks and cams.

In this activity, learners build their own sound machines and explore the interplay of motion and sound.

In this activity, learners construct three optical illusion toys to examine how our brains play tricks on what we see.

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

In this activity, learners use a nail and magnet wire to build an electromagnet, which controls the movements of a paper dancer.

In this activity, learners build mini-basketball courts using cardboard and measuring spoons. Use this activity to introduce learners to catapults, forces, and levers.

In this activity, learners build a musical drum using a cardboard tube, plastic wrap, and beads.