Search Results
Showing results 1 to 20 of 33

Launch It
Add to list DetailsIn this design challenge activity, learners use a balloon and other simple materials to design an air-powered rocket that can hit a distant target.

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

Convenient Carrier
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners invent a convenient way for someone using crutches or a wheelchair to carry small personal items.

Confetti Launcher
Source Institutions
Hooray! In this design challenge activity, learners invent a device that launches a spoonful of confetti into the air. Learners are encouraged to create the biggest cloud of confetti possible.

Using Solar Energy
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners discover how solar energy can be used to heat water.

Roving on the Moon
Add to list DetailsIn this design challenge activity, learners build a rubber band-powered rover that can scramble across the room.

Paper Drop Design Competition
Source Institutions
Using paper, paper clips, an index card, and tape, teams of learners design flying devices to (1) stay in the air as long as possible and (2) land as close as possible to a given target.

Kinetic Sculpture
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners build a tower that’s at least 12 inches high with two or more parts that move (spin, sway, or flap) in the wind.

Dance Pad Mania
Source Institutions
Make your own "Dance Dance Revolution" dance pad! In this design challenge activity, learners work in teams to build a dance pad that lets you use your feet to sound a buzzer or flash a light.

Zip Line
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners build a device to carry a Ping-Pong ball from the top of a zip line to the bottom in four seconds (or less!).

Watercraft
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners build a boat that can hold 25 pennies (or 15 one inch metal washers) for at least ten seconds before sinking.

Feel the Heat
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners design and build a solar hot water heater. Their goal is to create a heater that yields the highest temperature change.

High Rise
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners build a tower that can support a tennis ball at least 18 inches off the ground while withstanding the wind from a fan.

Sky Glider Challenge
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners use two helium-filled balloons to build a blimp that can travel in a straight path across the room.

Touch Down
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners build a shock-absorbing system that will protect two “astronauts” when they land.

Life Vest Challenge
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore the engineering behind life vests or personal flotation devices and the challenges met by these devices.

Cup Draw (Low Tech)
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners construct drawing machines using a cup, some markers, and a battery pack. The markers act as "legs" for the machine, making a drawing that records as it moves.

Cup Draw
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners construct drawing machines using a cup, some markers, and a cricket to control the movement. A programmed LEGO RCX or Cricket is required for this high-tech version.

Paddle Power
Source Institutions
In this design challenge, learners build a boat that paddles itself using a rubber band as its power source.

Hidden Alarm
Source Institutions
In this design challenge activity, learners invent a device that will make their friends and family ask, "What's buzzing?" Learners design an alarm with an on/off switch that is small enough to hide.