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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.

Lifting with Levers!
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In this fun hands-on activity learners explore a simple machine: the lever. What happens to a load when you multiply the length of a lever? Find out here!

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.

Balloon Car
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In this physics activity, challenge learners to make and race a balloon-powered car. Learners construct the body out of a paper cup, wheels out of wooden spools. and fuel tank out of a balloon.

Pencil Balance
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In this activity, challenge learners to make a pencil stand on its tip using only two pieces of wire and two clothespins. Use this activity to demonstrate the center of gravity.

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.

On Target
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In this design challenge activity, learners modify a cup so it can carry a marble down a zip line and also drop it onto a target.

Chain Reaction II
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In this hands-on activity, learners use an assortment of (mainly household) items to complete Rube Goldberg-type challenges.

Marble Ride
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In this activity, challenge learners to design a roller coaster ride for a marble using cardboard and other simple materials.

Catapult
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In this activity, learners build mini catapults using paint paddles and a spoon. Use this activity to introduce learners to forces and projectile motion.

Cranking Bird
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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.

Thrill Ride
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In this activity, learners will build a roller coaster for a marble to run on using everyday household materials such as paper towel or toilet paper rolls, cups, boxes, books, buckets, chairs, etc.

Puff Mobile
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In this engineering activity, challenge learners to design a car using only 3 straws, 4 Lifesavers™, 1 piece of paper, 2 paper clips, tape, and scissors.

Ramp it Up
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In this activity, learners will build ramps and test how the laws of physics apply do different objects. Learners will explore physics and cause and effect through this activity.

Homemade Rube Goldberg Machine
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In this fun and, at times, hilarious force and motion activity, learners will use household objects to build a crazy contraption and see how far they can get a tennis ball to move.

Spool Racer
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In this physics activity, challenge learners to make a rubber band-powered spool racer. Demonstrate principles of motion as well as potential and kinetic energy.

Weather Vane
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In this meteorology activity, learners build weather vanes using straws, paperclips, and cardstock.

Cable Car
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In this activity, learners string a line across the room and build cable cars that can move from on end to the other.

Can Car
Source Institutions
In this physics activity, challenge learners to make a race-car out of a coffee can and rubber band. Demonstrate motion, forces, kinetic and potential energy and friction.