Coming Soon: Rube Goldberg Virtual Event & DIY Challenge!
Next Sunday August 30 we’re hosting a virtual event about Rube Goldberg and simple machines, then introducing our very own Rube Goldberg Machine DIY Challenge! Click here to view event information.
Distance Learning Module: Types of Flight
This week we’re looking at different aspects of flight and ways that we can explore those at home.
Our world is full of things that fly! Birds, bats, insects, and other animals have bodies that allow them to soar, glide, and buzz through the air. Humans achieve air travel through all types of vehicles: jets and airplanes, helicopters, blimps, gliders, and even hot air balloons. In this module, we’ll break down the big topic of aviation and aerospace engineering by exploring the different types of flight and categories of human-made aircraft.
Note: Adult supervision is required for today’s hands-on activity, which involves flame!
Saturday STEM Challenge: Landing on Another Planet
Using a few office supplies and recyclables, we can simulate the physics required to land on the Moon. So here’s this week’s STEM challenge: using three index cards, two pieces of cardboard (each about 4 inches by 5 inches), some tape, and a small cup (you can make this yourself, if necessary), create a landing module that will safely land an astronaut (here, represented by a marshmallow, ping pong ball, or other small, light object) on another planet.
Bonus Module: Lenses
This week’s Distance Learning theme is optics, light, and the electromagnetic spectrum.
On Wednesday, we looked at how refraction impacts the way we see an object in water. This module builds on that activity, by using a bowl full of water and a few household props to further explore the properties of lenses.
Stick to just the hands-on activity for younger learners, or bring in the written blog content for middle/high school physics-lovers!
Distance Learning Module: Intro to Spectroscopy
This week’s Distance Learning theme is optics, light, and the electromagnetic spectrum. In this module, geared toward middle school-level learners, we learn more about spectroscopy—the study of how matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation—and how astronomers apply this science to better understand the composition of our universe.