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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 device that allows them to view 2-D images in 3-D.

Learners explore magnetism and motion as they build a simple marble run. Learners test different arrangements of plastic and cardboard tubes, bottles, and cups on a magnetic board.

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

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 (posted on March 14, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a camera projector to explore lenses and refraction.

In this activity, learners build handheld rockets and launchers out of PVC pipes and plastic bottles. Use this activity to demonstrate acceleration, air pressure, and Newton's Laws of Motion.

In this activity, learners explore moving air and the physics of lift and drag by constructing homemade wind tunnels.

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 (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 (posted on March 20, 2011), learners follow the steps to construct a stroboscope, a device that exploits the persistence of vision to make moving objects appear slow or stationary.

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 their own construction cranes using tongue depressors and pushpins.

In this activity, learners build cars using syringes and water-powered hydraulics. Learners construct the car frame out of cardboard and set up a hydraulic system to raise and lower the car.

In this activity, learners construct cars that are powered by hand-made, electric propellers.

In this activity, learners use simple tools to build a bookshelf with a built-in bookend.

In this activity, learners build styrofoam boats powered by twisted rubber bands.