Search Results
Showing results 1 to 20 of 30
Fan Cart
Source Institutions
If a sailboat is stranded because there is no wind, is it possible to set up a fan on deck and blow wind into the sail to make the boat move?
Building a Basic Series Circuit
Source Institutions
This activity was designed for blind learners, but all types of learners can use it to build and examine a basic electrical circuit.
Laser Lissajous: PVC Version
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners use a laser pointer and two small rotating mirrors to create a variety of fascinating patterns, which can be easily and dramatically projected on a wall or screen.
Electric Paddle Boat
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build an electric two-paddle boat using paint paddles, plastic knives, and empty water bottles.
Creepy Crawlers
Source Institutions
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.
Stripped-down Motor
Source Institutions
In this activity, you'll make an electric motor--a simple version of the electric motors found in toys, tools, and appliances everywhere.
Bottle Cars
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore motion, energy, and electricity by constructing bottle cars that run on motors.
Shake Table
Source Institutions
This activity guide includes instructions on how to build a "Shake Table" by mounting an eccentric mass (off center) on the shaft of a small dc motor.
How Do We Convert Electrical Energy into Mechanical Energy?
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners make an electromagnet motor to demonstrate the most basic method of changing electrical energy into mechanical energy.
Motor Bird
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a bird that flies in place with help from a motor, wire, and some straws.
Speedboat
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a speedboat using paint paddles, a propeller, and film canister. Learners attach a simple circuit and motor to the boat to power the propellers.
Laser Lissajous: Binder Clip Version
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners use a laser pointer and two small rotating mirrors to create a variety of fascinating patterns, which can be easily and dramatically projected on a wall or screen.
Push Pull Painter
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners create painting machines that can paint moving forwards and backwards.
Personal Fan
Source Institutions
Cool off in the heat with this project! Learners use simple materials to build a fan that runs on a motor.
Piezoelectric One-Way Remote
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners construct a device out of a piezoelectric igniter, like those used as barbecue lighters.
Scribbling Machines
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners explore electronics and motion by making a Scribbling Machine, a motorized contraption that moves in unusual ways and leaves a mark to trace its path.
Motorized Balancing Toy
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners build a toy that flies in circles. This activity introduces learners to center of mass, torque, and rotational motion.
Simple Spinner
Source Institutions
In this activity, learners create a tiny electric, motorized dancer. Learners use the interactions of magnetism and electric current to make a wire spin, while displaying the Lorentz Force in action.
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.