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In this activity, learners use an old CD to construct a spectroscope, a device that separates light into its component colors.

In this activity, learners explore how nanosized structures can create brilliant color.

In this activity related to nanotechnology, learners observe some of the effects that result from creating a thin layer of material several nanometers thick.

In this activity, learners discuss and investigate how cameras, telescopes, and their own eyes use light in similar ways.

In this two-part activity, learners explore the properties of liquid crystals, which are responsible for why mood rings change color.

In this activity, learners explore liquid crystals, light and temperature. Using a postcard made of temperature-sensitive liquid crystal material, learners monitor temperature changes.

In this activity, learners explore how polarizing sunglasses can help diminish road glare.

In this optics activity, learners use glass and water to demonstrate total internal reflection (TIR).

In this activity, learners make optical fibers out of strips of gelatin.

Learners experiment with a commercially available liquid-crystal coaster. They warm the material with their hands for varying lengths of time and observe the changing colors that result.

In this activity, learners use a laser pointer, empty soda bottle, rubber plug and water to demonstrate total internal reflection.

This is written as a display, but can easily be adapted to a hands-on activity. Learners observe and shake containers of shiny liquids.

In this activity, learners construct a device that allows them to look over ledges or around corners.

In this activity, learners use the Sun's energy to cook marshmallows. Learners construct the solar oven out of simple everyday materials.

Learners follow directions to construct a solar oven that really cooks! The solar oven uses aluminum foil to reflect sunlight into a cooking chamber, which is painted black.

In this optics activity, learners make a "light fountain" from a clear plastic bottle, flashlight, and other simple materials.

In this optics activity, learners examine how a transparent material such as glass or water can actually reflect light better than any mirror.

In this activity about light and perception, learners create pictures in thin air.

This fun activity uses simple materials such as milk cartons and mirrors to introduce the ideas of optics and visual perception.