The University of Texas McDonald Observatory

In this activity, learners explore the relative sizes and distances of objects in the solar system.

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

In this activity, learners make an equatorial sundial, which is simple to construct and teaches fundamental astronomical concepts. Learners use the provided template and a straw to build the sundial.

In this two-part activity, learners explore the Earth and Sun's positions in relation to the constellations of the ecliptic with a small model.

In this activity, learners construct their own spectroscope as they explore and observe spectra from familiar light sources.

In this activity, learners set up an experiment to investigate the effects of hot air on the path of a laser beam.

In this activity, learners test the Law of Reflection based on experimental evidence. Learners produce raw data and explanations based on their data: pencil tracings of incident and reflection rays.

In this activity, learners will first learn the basics of galaxy classification and grouping.

In this activity, learners carry out a scientific investigation of dust in their classroom. Learners produce an analysis on graph paper of the dust they collect over the course of a few days.

In this activity, learners observe colors in the flame of a burning candle to explore connections between matter, light, color and temperature -- basic concepts of matter and energy.