tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19060756144894452922024-03-05T13:35:31.627-08:00Kaleidoscope LearningSee learning in a whole new way!
Kaleidoscope Learning’s mission is simple: to make learning engaging and exciting through innovative programs and fun activities.
We want all learners to feel inspired and be creative. By providing a supportive environment we hope to guide our students through their explorations, making sure each one knows they have within them the power to change the world. At Kaleidoscope, we learn through collaboration, play, discovery… and FUN! KaleidoscopeScihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07618747660448169591noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-82838371471951073392014-03-17T02:34:00.001-07:002014-03-17T02:34:15.917-07:00Origami Microscope for Just 50 CentsMy most recent post for <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/03/16/origami-microscope-for-just-50-cents/" target="_blank">Makezine</a>. I really want to get my hands on these!<br />
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<img alt="Easy to use, with no external power needed, the Foldscope magnifies up to 2,000 times. Image courtesy the Foldscape Team." src="http://makezineblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/fig9-e1394722902808.jpg?w=840&h=630" height="298" width="400" /></div>
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Stanford bioengineering professor Manu Prakash, PhD is on a mission. He wants to make it easy for field researchers to identify and diagnose dangerous microbial diseases like malaria, African sleeping sickness, schistosomiasis, Chagas and more.</div>
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To do that, he and his team have created the Foldscope — an inexpensive, disposable paper microscope that uses tiny spherical lenses. In addition to a low price point of 50 cents, the Foldscope is remarkably durable, waterproof and adaptable, weighs just under 9 grams, can be built in minutes, requires no external power and, since it travels as a flat, printed sheet, takes up very little space. It has the potential to be a game-changing tool in the world of medicine and microscopy.</div>
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<a href="http://makezine.com/2014/03/16/origami-microscope-for-just-50-cents/" target="_blank">Read more...</a></div>
KaleidoscopeScihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07618747660448169591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-10373230558082495972014-03-13T11:19:00.002-07:002014-03-13T11:19:32.882-07:00Super Secret Science Challenge SIX: SledsCan you design two sleds -- one fast and one slow -- to deliver our Secret Agents to the lair of the evil Mr. Fluffly? You'll need to balance the effects of gravity and friction to make your design work. Join in the engineering fun with this installment of the Super Secret Science Challenge!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/-AvrzATf6ek?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This week's suggested supplies:<br />
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<li>2 cardboard or plastic trays</li>
<li>2 drinking straws</li>
<li>2 bamboo skewers</li>
<li>2 pencil</li>
<li>2 pipe cleaners</li>
<li>4 binder clips</li>
<li>4 paperclips</li>
<li>1 piece of copy paper</li>
<li>1 piece of wax paper</li>
<li>1 piece of plastic sheeting</li>
<li>1 piece of cotton fabric</li>
<li>4 old AA or AAA batteries</li>
<li>Assorted tapes -- invisible, masking, duct, packing, etc. </li>
<li>A small toy to act as the pilot</li>
<li>A wood plank, plastic rain gutter, or other material to act as the track</li>
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For this week's challenge, students will need to play with the balance between the force of gravity (and weight) on the sled and the friction between the sled and the track. The position of the pilot and any ballast (like the batteries or binder clips) can make for a great discussion about the center of gravity. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iVrfEaeY97Q/UyH1Ar2GrZI/AAAAAAAAGv8/bMCu1BLAosA/s1600/winter2+with+friction.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iVrfEaeY97Q/UyH1Ar2GrZI/AAAAAAAAGv8/bMCu1BLAosA/s1600/winter2+with+friction.GIF" /></a></div>
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Meanwhile, the decision between using a flat bottomed design, versus one with runners leads to an excellent discussion about how friction works. (The more contact, the more friction.) Additionally, the materials selected for the bottom of the sled (or even for a parachute behind it) can greatly affect how fast the sled moves on the track.</div>
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<br />You can use anything you want as a track, but make sure the starting point and end point are clearly defined. The angle of the track will greatly affect the way the sleds run, as will any curves or bends. This can be fun for experimentation.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7NprT58SMo/UyH2PoyUlUI/AAAAAAAAGwM/CW1heVS8KdU/s1600/2014-03-04+13.19.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7NprT58SMo/UyH2PoyUlUI/AAAAAAAAGwM/CW1heVS8KdU/s1600/2014-03-04+13.19.34.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Good luck agents!</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-48097083431561840172014-03-13T11:03:00.000-07:002014-03-13T11:21:48.770-07:00Super Secret Science Challenge FIVE: ParachutesThis week we have new heroes on our side: The B Team. They need to parachute into enemy territory and bug Mr. Fluffy's Lair! Are you the right Science Officer for the challenge? Let's find out, with this week's Super Secret Science Challenge!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/JDD00Ykdj-E?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Today's list of suggested supplies are:<br />
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<li>1 yard of string</li>
<li>1 plastic shopping bag</li>
<li>1 sheet of newspaper</li>
<li>3 sheets of copy paper</li>
<li>1 lunch bag</li>
<li>5 coffee filters</li>
<li>1 8.5x11” piece of aluminum foil</li>
<li>A small paper cup</li>
<li>8 paper clips, assorted</li>
<li>1 pipe cleaner</li>
<li>Various tapes -- invisible, masking, duct, etc.</li>
<li>A small toy as the pilot</li>
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To make this challenge even more fun, give your scientist two goals: create a parachute with the longest hang time possible and try to land right on a target. I drop my parachutes from a height of 2 meters (roughly the height of a door frame) with the feet of the "B Team" member as the bottom of the unit. Encourage students to create more than a single parachute for the challenge, as it can be tough to meet both objectives with one or, allow students to move the target to where they predict the parachute will land.</div>
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A <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4564095_a-parachute-work.html" target="_blank">parachute</a> is a fairly simple creation. It's primarily composed of a canopy made of some type of material, which creates lift (and drag) through the frictional force of air resistance. The parachute is connected to the pilot, who is held in a harness, by lines that connect to the canopy. The pilot is pulled by gravity towards the ground.</div>
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Good luck Agents! Hope you have fun making your creations!</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-73542981803015781102014-03-13T10:36:00.002-07:002014-03-13T10:36:35.006-07:00Adult Eye Cells Survive the Printing ProcessI think this is just the coolest biotech process I've seen recently!<br />
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<img alt="bioprinter" src="http://makezineblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/bioprinter.png?w=897&h=626" /><br />
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Using a piezoelectric printhead, researchers at the University of Cambridge were able to print cells from an adult animal’s central nervous system, forming layers of two types of cells taken from the retinas of rats. Though the scientists were concerned that the delicate cells would not survive, they found that viability was not affected and that there were no significant differences between cultures of printed and traditionally prepared cells. <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/22/adult-eye-cells-survive-the-printing-process/" target="_blank">Read more...</a>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-46707751045521176662014-03-13T10:33:00.000-07:002014-03-13T10:33:34.441-07:00Flying Robotic Jellyfish Take to the SkyThis is a neat robot I posted about at MAKE...<br />
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Leif Ristroph and Stephen Childress from New York University have just released work with a new robotic ornithopter with a biomechanical design based not on traditional insects or birds, but rather on the aquatic jellyfish. As a result the researchers say they’ve solved stability problems that have plagued other machines. <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/18/flying-robotic-jellyfish-take-to-the-sky/" target="_blank">Read more...</a>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-53676348876809819642014-03-13T09:56:00.000-07:002014-03-13T09:56:31.390-07:00Best Paper Plane Ever Uses Only Manilla Folders and GlueLoved writing this one up for MAKE!<br />
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It took five years, a lot of manilla folders and glue, and tremendous patience, but designer Luca Iaconi-Stewart finally completed his 1:60-scale replica of a 777 jetliner. The model, complete with miniature seats, engine, doors and even retractable landing gear, is almost as complicated as the real thing. <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/23/best-paper-plane-ever-uses-only-manilla-folders-and-glue/" target="_blank">Read more...</a>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-44372121094540211732014-03-13T09:53:00.001-07:002014-03-13T09:53:43.920-07:00Open Source EMG Biosensor Coming to a Muscle Near YouAnother post by me on Makezine...<br />
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<img height="290" src="http://www.flexvoltbiosensor.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/FlexVolt_DemoSignal.png" width="400" /><br />
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Until now, EMG equipment has been expensive and complicated. <a href="http://www.flexvoltbiosensor.com/" target="_blank">FlexVolt</a> is hoping to make the technology accessible to anyone for under $100. <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/26/open-source-emg-coming-to-a-muscle-near-you/" target="_blank">Read more...</a><br />
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I'm planning to use this or a similar device to do EMG experiments with this summer's Maker Camp!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-48871615983277548372014-03-13T09:49:00.001-07:002014-03-13T09:49:43.573-07:00Google Makes Lego Even CoolerA recent Makezine post by yours truly...<div>
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A partnership between Google and Lego has ushered in a new age of virtual block-play: <a href="http://www.buildwithchrome.com/" target="_blank">Build with Chrome</a>. <a href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/31/google-makes-lego-even-cooler/" target="_blank">Read more...</a></div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-14315916075622951402014-01-06T02:22:00.001-08:002014-01-06T02:23:11.097-08:00Mini Maker Space<div style="border: 0px; color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
A short post I wrote for MAKE about building a creative space for your favorite young Maker!</div>
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<a data-mce-href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/04/how-to-make-a-mini-maker-space-for-mini-makers/" href="http://makezine.com/2014/01/04/how-to-make-a-mini-maker-space-for-mini-makers/" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">http://makezine.com/2014/01/04/how-to-make-a-mini-maker-space-for-mini-makers/</a></div>
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<img alt="Min Maker Space" data-mce-src="http://makezineblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/mini-maker-space-1.jpg?w=598&h=336" src="http://makezineblog.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/mini-maker-space-1.jpg?w=598&h=336" style="border: 0px; cursor: default; height: auto; margin: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-3653522488709956022013-12-31T04:38:00.002-08:002013-12-31T09:37:55.956-08:00Koch Snowflake cards<div style="border: 0px; color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 20px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Like most self respecting nerds, I love fractals. So what better way to celebrate winter than creating a fun card based on the famous Koch Snowflake (also know as the Koch star and island)!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OoMYZAihXo/UsK8kpu6kVI/AAAAAAAADzY/QjD6i4kkPKg/s1600/2013-12-31+07.45.11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8OoMYZAihXo/UsK8kpu6kVI/AAAAAAAADzY/QjD6i4kkPKg/s320/2013-12-31+07.45.11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A <a data-mce-href="http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Fractal.html" href="http://mathworld.wolfram.com/Fractal.html" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">fractal</a> is a geometric figure that has some pretty awesome special features. They have "self symmetry," creating detailed repeating patterns that are often described as "the same from near as from far." They're found all over the place in nature and are used in math and science in a variety of applications. </div>
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One of the easiest to create by hand, and also one of the easiest to understand, is the <a data-mce-href="http://mathworld.wolfram.com/KochSnowflake.html" href="http://mathworld.wolfram.com/KochSnowflake.html" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Koch Snowflake</a>. First described by Helge von Koch in 1904, this fractal is based on an equilateral triangle. <a data-mce-href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/frac/koch.html" href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/frac/koch.html" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">To build it one</a>, you create an equilateral triangle, then remove 1/3 of one side of the triangle and replace it with an new, smaller equilateral triangle. You repeat this process on each side, then repeat it on each side of each new triangle, and so on. The result is a shape that can literally have<a data-mce-href="https://www.khanacademy.org/math/geometry/basic-geometry/koch_snowflake/v/koch-snowflake-fractal" href="https://www.khanacademy.org/math/geometry/basic-geometry/koch_snowflake/v/koch-snowflake-fractal" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"> infinite perimeter, but finite area</a>. Cool right?</div>
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<a data-mce-href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/frac/koch.html" href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/frac/koch.html" style="border: 0px; color: #1abc9c; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/images/kochall.gif" src="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/images/kochall.gif" style="border: 0px; clear: both; cursor: default; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 20px; max-width: 100%;" /></a></div>
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So, for an extra nerdy card, I used the Koch Snowflake shape and created a fun, glittery pop up.</div>
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The process is simply to <a href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/frac/koch.html" target="_blank">make a Koch snowflake template</a>, trace that into a card and cut around the shape with a craft knife, leaving the shape attached to the base at a few points. Then fold the pop up in the opposite direction of the card, creasing the contact points carefully. Finish by backing with contrasting cardstock to create the front of your 4.24" x 5.5" card.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgdIPXNMqNE/UsKxlP1N3II/AAAAAAAADyg/lzZlSyYcnSM/s1600/4398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgdIPXNMqNE/UsKxlP1N3II/AAAAAAAADyg/lzZlSyYcnSM/s320/4398.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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To make it more festive, I created snowflake "covers" that were just the Koch snowflake. These I <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002UCPC4A/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002UCPC4A&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">embossed</a> and glittered to make them stand out beautifully. I also used the inside of the double snowflake to create a custom stamp, simply tracing it onto craft foam and cutting it out, then adhering it to an acrylic block with some double-stick tape. I used it as I would any other stamp. This card reads "Baby, it's cold outside."</div>
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Now, I'll have really detailed instructions up on <a href="http://makezine.com/craftzine/" target="_blank">CRAFT</a> soon, I hope, but in the mean time, why not just grab my templates and make a card the easy way?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQuscYCULxE/UsK0BrT0mEI/AAAAAAAADy0/_wnZUhoLYwk/s1600/kochsnowflake_double.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XQuscYCULxE/UsK0BrT0mEI/AAAAAAAADy0/_wnZUhoLYwk/s320/kochsnowflake_double.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Print the PDFs below onto cardstock and cut until your heart's content!</div>
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<li><a href="https://copy.com/TgCch9MC34dZ66RU" target="_blank">Single Koch snowflake pop up card</a></li>
<li><a href="https://copy.com/fELmYDeAGGympEoa" target="_blank">Single snowflake cover</a></li>
<li><a href="https://copy.com/XRg3o7PmQnswnUoj" target="_blank">Double Koch snowflake pop up card</a></li>
<li><a href="https://copy.com/3igTaDEGWDuBAIJT" target="_blank">Double snowflake cover</a></li>
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If you have a digital cutter, like I do, this all becomes very easy, indeed! I have an old first generation <a href="http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/" target="_blank">Silhouette</a> from Quickutz. You can pick them up for about $100 on eBay, and they are amazingly useful. I use the free software <a href="http://www.inkscape.org/en/" target="_blank">Inkscape</a> to design my digital cutting files and then the free software for the Silhouette to manipulate and cut the shapes. It's totally awesome!</div>
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Anyway, if you have such a machine, all you need to do is download the appropriate DXF or SVG file and let your computer do the work for you! You may opt to throw in a perforation or scoring line down the center when you cut to make folding easier, but I just used my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036FDKZS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0036FDKZS&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Scoring Board</a>. Now you can make cards for all your nerdy friends!! Huzzah!</div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/e08Y0UfwkRIzO4qA" target="_blank">Single Koch snowflake pop up card (dxf)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/nUVyEDkq4JoKhX1S" target="_blank">Single snowflake cover (dxf)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/RZkKgbJW4NJxBZC4" target="_blank">Double Koch snowflake pop up card (dxf)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/uCHGvLBPFPnPe8wI" target="_blank">Double snowflake cover (dxf)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/JJEKby2EwZ8FZqCC" target="_blank">Single Koch snowflake pop up card (svg)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/1wnWXJyy8TVNTFPM" target="_blank">Single snowflake cover (svg)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/GU0wLxI90YAxaW6T" target="_blank">Double Koch snowflake pop up card (svg)</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #656565; font-family: Montserrat, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><a href="https://copy.com/uC0bbYq7QherauZz" target="_blank">Double snowflake cover (svg)</a></span></li>
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Anyway, I hope you have fun. Be sure to share pictures of your cards!</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-72209297127178082602013-12-30T04:34:00.000-08:002013-12-30T04:42:39.459-08:00MORE fractal cards!After I made the l<a href="http://klcnj.blogspot.com/2013/11/fractal-christmas-card.html" target="_blank">ast fractal Christmas card</a>, my daughter pointed out that it also looked a lot of like a pile of present. (Kids!) So I decided to play with that idea a bit.<br />
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I selected a set of coordinating scrapbook papers, and cut the inside of the card just as I did last time. For a quick review...<br />
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For this version, it's important to measure and cut accurately, so that the pieces we cut for "presents" fit well. That said, go ahead and cut a second insert from a piece of plain or scrap cardstock. We'll use this for templates. Just cut along the folds.<br />
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Then it's time to trace and cut. We'll need one large piece as the central present. Then cut three of the mid-sized present, one from each of three types of paper. Lastly, cut nine small pieces -- two each from the three different papers and three from the last.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkfqWJ8ytmo/UodcF1I9CLI/AAAAAAAADHw/-LBqY_mfmbU/s1600/2013-11-15+20.31.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkfqWJ8ytmo/UodcF1I9CLI/AAAAAAAADHw/-LBqY_mfmbU/s320/2013-11-15+20.31.33.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, we get to play paper tetris. Ink the edges of all the the present pieces, so that they have some depth when attached. Use a bit of glue stick to attach the paper pieces onto the base. Then attached the base to the outside of the card. Ink the edges and you're nearly done.<br />
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I added some strips of paper for "ribbons" and attached the inside to the outside. Then I gave the front a bit of decoration.<br />
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Add the sentiment and I'm good to go! This got me thinking, what other fractal-based patterns can I cut and make into cards. As it turns out, I am not the only one who is obsessed with this technique. Yale offers a<a href="http://classes.yale.edu/fractals/panorama/Art/Paperfolding/Paperfolding.html" target="_blank"> fun free pattern</a> using blocks. They actually have a whole lab activity using Cantor sets to make<a href="http://classes.yale.edu/fractals/Labs/PaperFoldingLab/PaperFoldingLab.html" target="_blank"> fractal folds</a>. There is also a book called "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/090621288X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=090621288X&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Fractal Cuts</a>" by Diego Uribe, that you can buy new or used on Amazon. (Yea, I totally ordered it.) So I played with another boxy design.<br />
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Then using the same template method as above, I made another "present" card.<br />
<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-86456858442622860482013-12-29T07:12:00.001-08:002013-12-29T13:09:01.142-08:00Active Indoor Fun at the Discovery MuseumThe family and I are on our annual holiday trip to Fairfield, CT, visiting my in-laws. One of our favorite places to check out while up north is the <a href="http://www.discoverymuseum.org/index.html" target="_blank">Discovery Museum</a> in Bridgeport, CT. They have a great Planetarium, several permanent exhibits -- a whole floor on space, and energy exhibit, a sound and light gallery, sport science and LEGOs -- as well as visiting exhibits that change twice a year. Recently the museum added a <a href="http://www.discoverymuseum.org/museum/museum/exhib/firstinflight.html" target="_blank">First in Flight</a> exhibit in tribute to Gustave Whitehead as well.<br />
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Let's start with Gustave. I know most of us think Wright Brothers when we think First in Flight, but folks in Connecticut can get fussy about that. See, research Jon Brown, building on the work of locals <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000N28GRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000N28GRO&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Stella Randolph</a>, Andy Kosch and Retired Air Force Major <a href="http://www.fairfieldhistory.org/wp-content/uploads/ODwyer-Gustav-Whitehead-Research-Collection-Ms-B107.pdf" target="_blank">William J. O’Dwyer</a>, recently showed that <a href="http://gustavewhitehead.org/" target="_blank">Gustave Whitehead</a> was in fact the first to build and fly an airplane. Whitehead's "Number 21" took off on the Bridgeport-Fairfield line on August 14, 1901, two years before the Wright's accomplished the feat. Discovery hosts a wonderful half-sized model of the plane as well as information about Whitehead. </div>
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The first visiting exhibit we encountered was the <a href="http://www.discoverymuseum.org/museum/museum/exhib/visitingexhibits.html" target="_blank">Adventure Science</a>. This indoor low ropes course was a complete blast! The museum's website describes it as "highly interactive" and they aren't kidding. There are zip lines, climbing structures, bridges, ropes and more. The installation is meant to highlight the museum's new <a href="http://www.discoveryadventurepark.org/" target="_blank">Adventure Park</a>, a 5-acre aerial forest park opened last year. Both exhibits were designed by<a href="http://www.outdoorventures.us/" target="_blank"> Outdoor Ventures</a>, a Southport Company that specializes in such constructions. </div>
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The entire exhibit was designed to demonstrate scientific principles and physics concepts such as gravity, the interaction of forces and more. The exhibit also serves to educate about the natural sciences and structures of the forest, human physiology and even the psychology over interacting with the activities. </div>
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According to museum director, Jeffery Bishop, “The Discovery Museum is all about interactive learning and we saw this as an ideal way to capture people’s imaginations like nothing else. This exhibit will prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that science can be a lot of fun!” I'd say they met their goal. This exhibit is aces!</div>
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The second visiting exhibit was also full of hands on fun. "Take Flight" had activities for building paper airplanes, rockets and helicopters as well as great launchers to set them moving. My niece Maddie, loved using the metal tubes provided to shape rockets form plain paper. The<a href="http://makezine.com/2010/07/11/how-to-building-the-compressed-air/" target="_blank"> bicycle pump launcher</a> packed a punch, sending the rocket far and fast. </div>
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Caitie loved making <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/judyjowers/5499046322/" target="_blank">heli-cup-ters</a> and flying them in the vertical wind tunnel. Using a simple Italian ice cone, kids cut flaps along the edges to create a whirling flyer. Gwen preferred a more<a href="http://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/roto-copter.html" target="_blank"> traditional folded paper model</a>. Either way, the girls had a blast sending them zooming into the air over the blower. (Hint: To do this at home, try an inexpensive box fan on blocks and pointed towards the ceiling!)</div>
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Before leaving the exhibit we also gave the <a href="http://www.funpaperairplanes.com/" target="_blank">classic paper airplanes</a> a try. The museum provided instructions for two examples, so that kids could compare how they flew while learning about lift and wing shape. The launcher here was similar to a much sturdier version of the <a href="http://www.minieco.co.uk/catapult-paper-airplane/" target="_blank">rubber band shooter</a> that's easy to attach to your own paper airplane at home. I loved the use of hula hoops and other targets!</div>
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While at Discovery, we also took in a show at the <a href="http://www.discoverymuseum.org/museum/museum/planetarium.html" target="_blank">Planetarium</a>. In addition to various educational movies, the museum offers "The Skies Tonight" shows that cover the constellations, planets and other heavenly bodies you can find at that time of year. They even provide <a href="http://www.skymaps.com/downloads.html" target="_blank">a star map</a> to take home, to help you out once you're in the dark. The presenter was very thorough, interesting and knowledgeable, but kept the presentation quick paced enough that it was perfect for kids. (The museum suggested ages 8 and up, but my 7-year-old had no trouble sitting through the presentation. </div>
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The presenter also showed a great short movie entitled, "Two Small Pieces of Glass" about the 400 year history of the telescope. Produced by PBS in 2009 for "International Year of Astronomy," this fun film explained all about how telescopes work, how they've changed over time, how they've been used throughout history and how they continue to shape out knowledge of the Universe. Everything from basic refraction and reflection through red shift were covered using language than anyone can understand. And as an added bonus, PBS provides a whole<a href="http://www.pbs.org/soptv/400years/en/planetarium_program/two_small_pieces_of_glass.php" target="_blank"> teacher's guide with activities and further resources</a>, so you can keep learning after the show.</div>
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<a href="http://www.skymaps.com/downloads.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Evening Sky Map (front)" src="http://www.skymaps.com/graphics/tesm1.gif" /></a> <a href="http://www.skymaps.com/downloads.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Evening Sky Map (back)" src="http://www.skymaps.com/graphics/tesm2.gif" /></a></div>
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As a side note, the film's plot was centered around a <a href="http://www.skyandtelescope.com/observing/3304891.html" target="_blank">star party</a> the two main characters were attending. The presenter encouraged us to look for and attend star parties in our local area. I MUST do this. Luckily, there are <a href="http://www.amsky.com/calendar/events/" target="_blank">websites</a> out there to help you find local star parties!</div>
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There are lots of little gems throughout the museum, from "The Sun as Art" photographs to the signed prints by Buckminster Fuller (below). Some of the exhibits are certainly in need of rehab, but still provide a lot of fun and education. Plan at least 3 hours to visit, so you can check out everything offered.</div>
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So if you happen to be anywhere near Bridgeport, CT between now and March 2014, you should definitely head over to the Discovery Museum and check out all their great exhibits. Have fun!</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Note: I was NOT compensated in any way by Discovery Museum or its affiliates. I just think it's a cool place. You should take a minute <a href="http://www.discoverymuseum.org/support/donate.html" target="_blank">to donate</a>!)</span></i></div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-20811651561404181252013-11-14T15:29:00.001-08:002013-11-14T15:29:23.459-08:00Fractal Christmas CardWe've been studying fractals with the Kaleidoscope Cooperative for Science and Math. As part of that study, we explored <a href="http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/fractals/" target="_blank">Sierpinski's Triangle</a>, a fractal in which equilateral triangle shapes are removed according to a specific set of rules, forming a repeating pattern.<br />
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I wanted to extend the 2D version we made in class to a 3D project. Luckily, I found the Fractal Foundation and their instructions to <a href="http://fractalfoundation.org/resources/fractivities/fractal-cutout/" target="_blank">create a triangle fractal cutout</a>. By making repeated cuts in folded paper you can create a shape similar to a Sierpinski's triangle. And when you're done, it looks like a Christmas tree. Which makes it a most excellent holiday card!<br />
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The kids had a great time making these, but I wanted a little more refined version for my nerdier friends and family members. So I pulled out my craft supplies. For this project you need: colored cardstock, a ruler, a pencil, scissors, a glue stick, a star punch, an embossing folder and embosser, and assorted inks.<br />
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I started by cutting a piece of green cardstock to 8.5 x 5.5 inches. I folded this in half to create a 4.25 x 5.5 inch card. Using my ruler I marked the middle of the card and drew a line from the folded side to midway across.<br />
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Then I cut along the line, folded one section away from the folded edge and creased well. Then I unfolded the flap and inverted the tab, pushing the fold inwards.<br />
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Refolding the paper, and tucking the tab inside, I once again used my ruler to measure the halfway point on each of the side "steps." I drew a line halfway across the step. Then it was cut, fold, invert.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i06h64Q0jP4/UoVRknFc4yI/AAAAAAAAC9w/tSGk4us3ln0/s1600/2013-11-14+16.15.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i06h64Q0jP4/UoVRknFc4yI/AAAAAAAAC9w/tSGk4us3ln0/s320/2013-11-14+16.15.10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I repeated the cycle once more. After this point the paper was too thick to fold and cut neatly. I you used copy or origami paper you might be able to get more detail.<br />
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Once all the tabs were done, I used the edge of my ruler to crease them really well. Then I un-inverted the folds to flatten the paper and ran the card through an embosser. I also trimmed the paper by 1/4" all around and inked the edges. When that was done, I carefully refolded the tabs to create the pattern and sprayed the front with gold ink.<br />
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I cut a piece of red cardstock to 8.5 x 5.5 inches, folded it into a 4.5 x 5.5 inch card and embossed that as well, inking the edges when it was done.<br />
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I applied glue to the back of the triangle tree and carefully attached it to the inside of the red card, pressing down well and being sure to center the green card. I punched a little star from yellow cardstock, folded it in half and used the glue to attach it to the top of the tree. I then decorated the front of the card with some scrap green cardstock and another yellow star.<br />
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All I need to do is add a cheery sentiment and this card is ready to add a bit of geek chic to someone's Christmas.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-35836782041322473122013-11-14T11:40:00.001-08:002013-11-14T11:40:04.891-08:00Math Fun with DiceI hear it a lot. "I hate math." "Math is boring." "I'm no good at math." "I just don't get it." It really doesn't have to be that way. I swear!<br />
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One of the best things about math, especially at the elementary and middle school levels is that so much can be learned through game play. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, negative and positive integers, exponents, currency, probability and even basic algebra can all be practiced through game play.<br />
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For this post, I'm going to focus in on dice games, because they are inexpensive, extremely portable and offer tremendous variety. That last one is really important. Any game gets boring after a while, and for kids that hate math, keeping game play fresh is vital.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ng6WMX9Yto/UoUO-jFCMLI/AAAAAAAAC20/_OsAajF_Ups/s1600/jpg_bone121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ng6WMX9Yto/UoUO-jFCMLI/AAAAAAAAC20/_OsAajF_Ups/s1600/jpg_bone121.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the most popular commercially available games is aptly called "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007LYKX0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0007LYKX0&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Math Dice</a>." Using three six-sided dice and two ten-sided scoring dice, students can play a variety of games. The most popular scenario is to roll the die and figure out how to add, subtract, multiply or divide to reach a "target" number. This type of game encourages the kind of problem solving and mental math skills the students need. It can be played independently, collectively or competitively, and has been used in classrooms and for math tournaments for years. At only $6/set, Math Dice is a great addition to any game shelf. There is also a <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004617DEU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004617DEU&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Math Dice Jr</a>. for younger children.<br />
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There are other less well-known math games available out there as well -- <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000229N2C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000229N2C&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">4-Way Count Down</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ATWSQQ4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00ATWSQQ4&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Even Steven's Odd</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001454DQM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001454DQM&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Double Shutter</a> -- just to name a few! And don't forget other games that, while not being specifically made for teaching math, do contain elements that practice important skills. For example, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003A4R0YM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003A4R0YM&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Yahtzee</a> requires a great deal of number play and addition, as do the fun variants on the theme, like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BF657YM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BF657YM&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Flash</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TMZ6WU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001TMZ6WU&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Yamslam</a>.<br />
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One of my personal favorites, that you may not have played before, is call <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F9WKX6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000F9WKX6&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Cosmic Wimpout</a>. "In this game that consists of five dice and nothing else, play proceeds by rolling the five Cosmic Wimpout cubes and get points for each 5, 10, or Flash (triplet) that you roll. You can accumulate points towards the Winning Total by ending your turn or risking it all, because if you roll and don't score, you lose all the points for that turn and the next player goes." It's fast-paced, challenging, exciting and tons of fun. Kids will not know they're practicing math. I keep this tube of dice in my backpack at all times. It's just that good. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NA0HP0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000NA0HP0&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Farkle</a> tends to travel with me too.<br />
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Now, say you don't want to have to buy a bunch of games. Maybe you have some dice sitting around at home, lonely and unused. Perfect! You're ready to start playing some math games!<br />
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Start with a visit to Scholastic's <a href="http://teacher.scholastic.com/lessonrepro/lessonplans/grmagam.htm" target="_blank">4 Great Math Games</a>. There you'll learn favorites like Pig. A player rolls two dice and mentally adds them. This player can keep on rolling and adding to their total for as long as they want. However, if they roll a 1 before they choose to stop, they're total for the round is 0. If they roll two 1's, their entire total is reduced to 0. The first player to reach 100 points wins.<br />
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Teachers will appreciate the printable instructions and score sheets at <a href="http://www.math-salamanders.com/math-games-using-dice.html" target="_blank">Math Salamanders</a>. My favorite is "Spot the Calculation." In this game, a student roles three dice and makes a calculation. The other player must guess what operations they used to get that answer.<br />
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Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/dice-games" target="_blank">Activity Village</a> has lots of classic math games like <a href="http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/mountain" target="_blank">Mountain</a> and <a href="http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/mouse" target="_blank">Mouse</a>, many of which are perfect for young students who are still learning to identify numbers. For example, in Mountain, you make or print a drawing of the hill with the numbers 1-6 going up the side to the top and then 6-1 down the other. Students start at the bottom of the hill with a marker. The first student rolls a die, hoping for a 1, because they must roll each number in order to move up or down the mountain. If they don't roll the needed number, they can't move. This is great for kids to learn to recognize their numbers and to practice counting with the dots on the dice.<br />
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And Didax Education offers a small selection of<a href="http://www.didax.com/newsletter/pdfs/hands_on_algebra_211396.pdf" target="_blank"> dice games for algebraic thinking</a> that are great for middle schoolers. You can use their samples, or make your own similar games. It's easy! Try this: Onto index cards, either copy a few simple algebraic expression from a textbook or make your own. Mix up the cards and place them face down on the table. A student, flips the top card and rolls a die. She then substitutes the number on the die into the expression for the variable and solves. Each player rolls their die and does the same, writing down their answer. Play continues until all the expression cards are used. Players then add their solutions together. The highest number wins.<br />
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For teaching negative and positive numbers, I like this simple game. First print or create a simple number line and find a small marker that fits on it. Then find two dice, each a different color. One color represents a positive number, the other negative. The student rolls both dice and selects one to start with. They mark that number on the number line. Then using the other, they count from that spot the amount on the other die, moving in the correct direction. The place they land is the sum of the two numbers. I usually have them write out the equation then. Once they get the hang of this, I add dice, making the equations longer or swap in 10 or 12 sided die to practice with larger sums. This game is especially useful for students that don't understand how positive and negative integers work. <br />
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So I hope you have some new ideas for fun dice games to play with your favorite math student.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-38956197821681726232013-11-03T13:38:00.003-08:002013-11-04T02:52:44.960-08:00Glowing Geology!If you haven't made a trip out to the<a href="http://www.franklinmineralmuseum.com/index.htm" target="_blank"> Franklin Mineral Museum</a> to view it's amazing rock collections, you're missing out. The museum houses thousands of rock and mineral samples from all over the world. The local room has 4,000 samples just from the Franklin area. The area's rich zinc deposits have produced over 360 different mineral species. The museum also has a fossil collection, Native American artifacts, a Mine replica and more.<br />
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A highlight for me is the Florescent Room. Franklin is known as "the Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World," and is an excellent place to explore these amazing geologic wonders. <a href="http://geology.com/articles/fluorescent-minerals/">Fluorescent minerals</a> are able to absorb a small amount of light of specific wavelengths (such as UV) and then release it immediately as another wavelength. This temporary change in the wavelength causes a change in color, which we can see under the right conditions. It's great science, and everyone love to see the amazing glowing colors. Beautiful!<br />
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Twice a year, the museum allows hobbyists to participate in a night dig on the Buckwheat Dump, a 3.5 acre mine dump that continues to yield exciting finds. With sturdy boots, goggles, a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007JYP4NI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007JYP4NI&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">UV light</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003JKIYJM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003JKIYJM&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">rock pick</a>, my daughters and I set out to find our own fluorescent samples. I highly recommend the experience! It was a real adventure.<br />
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In addition to the excitement of climbing over the piles of rocks hunting for samples, at night, every time you shine your light at the piles they glow with purples, greens, yellows, oranges and reds! How cool is that? It's a magical experience. Better yet, you can take the fun home, because the museum allows you to keep your samples, for a small fee.<br />
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We came home with a few pounds of minerals for our collection. Now we need to get them all identified, which will be a fun upcoming project. I can't wait for my copy of <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0764336193/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0764336193&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Collecting Flourescent Minerals</a></i> to arrive! Once we've got them all sorted, I'll be sure to let you know what we discovered!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0764336193/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0764336193&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0764336193&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=kaleilearncen-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=kaleilearncen-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0764336193" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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KaleidoscopeScihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07618747660448169591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-58527910985670205452013-11-03T12:47:00.000-08:002013-11-04T02:58:04.177-08:00Potion fun!For Halloween, I wanted to whip up some extra-special fun for my events. So I put together two simple "potion" activities.<br />
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Of course, I pulled out my favorite color changing experiment. I filled one fancy bottle with vinegar. To another I added a solution made by dissolving baking soda in warm water. This way you have two clear liquids that look very similar. Then I made a purple potion by boiling a head of red cabbage in water and cooling the liquid.<br />
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To do the magic trick, just pour a bit of each clear potion into a cup. Add a few drops of purple potion. The vinegar will turn pink, while the baking soda will turn blue. Then mix them together. The solution will fizz and turn purple!<br />
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For the second potion experiment, I decided to make slime. Again you need to make two matching solutions. For the first, add 1 teaspoon of Borax to 1 cup of water and stir well to dissolve. For the second, add 1/2 cup of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Elmers-Washable-No-Run-School-E305/dp/B001G9EBDG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1383562624&sr=8-1&keywords=clear+glue" target="_blank">clear glue</a> to 1/2 cup of water and mix well. When I'm working with a group, I usually make a gallon of each solution, so I have plenty to work with.<br />
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When you add equal amounts of the Borax solution and the glue mixture together, it will gel quickly into a gloppy slime. You can add food coloring to the glue mixture before adding Borax, if you like, to make colored slime.<br />
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Any time you need a bit of magic, I hope you'll play with potions like these. Happy Halloween!KaleidoscopeScihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07618747660448169591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-39149549469193412872013-11-03T10:51:00.002-08:002013-11-04T01:39:39.046-08:00Preschool Dance PartyRecently I hosted a fun little dance party for the preschoolers in my Friday Funday program. Kids love to dance, so giving them the chance to live it up with their friends, complete with disco ball, is the perfect wake to spice up chilly or rainy days.<br />
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There are so many great songs out there for kids, with new artists adding albums every day. And since you can download music directly to your computer or phone, it's so easy and fast to create your own custom playlist.<br />
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I love to start with classics. Everyone loves "The Hokey Pokey," and the version by Dan Zanes & Friends on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QZR4OY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000QZR4OY&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank"><i>Family Dance</i></a> is fantastic. I also love "If You're Happy and You Know It" by the Big Kidz Band on <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0031CH6ZQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0031CH6ZQ&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Indian Elephant Tea</a>. </i>The camp classic "Father Abraham" from Lisa Loeb's <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001FI74Y6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001FI74Y6&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Camp Lisa</a> </i>is a great track too. You can also find many versions of "The Chicken Dance," "The Limbo" and "Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" to enjoy.<br />
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Another fun participation dance to try is They Might Be Giant's “Clap Your Hands” from the album <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C7WSISK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00C7WSISK&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">No</a></i>. And Raffi's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0010VHQ4G/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0010VHQ4G&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Shake My Silles Out</a>" is lots of fun to act out. And don't forget great rock and roll songs like Chubby Checker's "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0016CO67Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0016CO67Y&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">The Twist</a>," "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NZXJWC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001NZXJWC&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Celebration</a>" by Kool and the Gang, "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O3SLEE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001O3SLEE&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20">Y.M.C.A</a>." by The Village People and "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00138EZM2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00138EZM2&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Walk Like an Egyptian</a>" by The Bangles. Or download a pop hit like “<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007YQAFDU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007YQAFDU&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">I Like to Move It</a>” from the Madagascar soundtrack and groove.<br />
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For some modern dance tracks check out Yo Gabba Gabba's <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002QEKUXA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002QEKUXA&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20">Music is Awesome</a></i> for fun songs like "Get the Sillies Out." Or try The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006ZUE6AY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B006ZUE6AY&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20">Fresh Beat Band</a> for danceable tracks like "Music (Gets Me Movin')."<br />
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Whatever music you put on, there are some great games you can play too. Kids always love Freeze Dance, where you randomly stop the music and they freeze. You can play Hot Potato too, passing a balloon, ball or other object. Or just get everyone into a circle and give each person the chance to share their moves and take the center. If you have musical instrument, be sure to take those out and let the kids jam along with the tunes.<br />
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I can't wait for my next preschool dance party. Until then, my kids and I will have to dance around our kitchen at home. (Making dinner is always more fun that way!)<br />
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<br />KaleidoscopeScihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07618747660448169591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-82186010232725758032013-10-24T05:05:00.002-07:002013-10-24T05:07:55.427-07:00Super Secret Science Challenge FOURThis week, field agents Misty, Sunshine and The Weather Weasel have been captured by the evil Mr. Fluffy. They need to build a super complicated, crazy contraption to distract the villain before he can use his Puppinator to change all of the world's dogs into cats! <span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
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<br /><br />This week's materials are:<br /><br /><ul>
<li>6-4x6 and 2-3x5 Index cards </li>
<li>3 dixie cups </li>
<li>4 bamboo skewers </li>
<li>assorted cardboard (corrugated and chipboard) </li>
<li>6 feet of twine </li>
<li>10 paper clips </li>
<li>10 assorted rubber bands </li>
<li>2 marbles </li>
<li>1 ping pong ball </li>
<li>3 toilet paper tubes </li>
<li>1 balloon </li>
<li>4 drinking straws </li>
<li>4 pipe cleaners </li>
<li>2 clothes pins </li>
<li>10 tongue depressors </li>
<li>1 disposable spoon </li>
<li>masking tape and scotch tape </li>
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This week's challenge encourages students to build a <a href="http://www.rubegoldberg.com/">Rube Goldberg Machines</a>. These contraptions are designed to make simple tasks much more complicated, often with silly results. Aside from being tremendously creative projects that are a lot of fun to build, Rube Goldberg Machines also give students the opportunity to explore simple machines.<br /><br /> <a href="http://www.mikids.com/Smachines.htm">Simple machines</a> -- such as inclined planes, levers, wheels and axles, pulleys, wedges and screws -- are mechanical tools that make work easier by changing the direction or amount of force used to complete a task. We use simple machines every day, and when we combine them, we can create complex machines. Challenge older students to identify examples of simple machines within their crazy contraption.<br /><br /> Have fun! And please, don't hesitate to share your pictures of your machines!<span style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><br /></span>
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We'll be back next week with another Super Secret Science Challenge. You can take the challenge <a href="https://bookwhen.com/ewph7/201310091330/fr5" target="_blank">at Kaleidoscope</a>, or <a href="http://www.klcnj.com/current-programs/to-go" target="_blank">bring it to your school or club</a>!</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-58159682194983597852013-10-18T03:32:00.000-07:002013-10-18T03:32:29.294-07:00Making the Future: E-blast for October 18Fall is such a time of transformation, and our Kaleidoscope kids are coming up new and creative ways to explore their world. In the newsletter enjoy some great crafts for Fall, tips for young business hopefuls, information on programming for kids, exciting explosions and our Super Secret Science Challenge!<br />
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Click to read <a href="http://eepurl.com/G9Cl1" target="_blank">the newsletter</a>! Want to get the newsletter in your Inbox each week? <a href="http://eepurl.com/DweFf" target="_blank">Sign up now!</a><br />
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<u><b>Upcoming Events</b></u><br />
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Programs may be booked through <a href="http://www.bookwhen.com/klcnj" target="_blank">Bookwhen</a> or <a href="mailto:info@klcnj.com" target="_blank">email</a>. You must register no later than 24 hours before a class to participate.<br />
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<b>Weekends in October</b><br />
Local Farmer's Markets: Come join in the free fun at these great locations:<br />
Blairstown Farmer's Market, 10 am to 2 pm, Route 521, next to the Agway.<br />
Belvidere Farmer's Market, 9 am to 2 pm, Second Street, Belvidere.<br />
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<b>Monday, October 21</b><br />
Mythbusters. Explore science the Mythbusters way and be sure to “Try this at home!” 3:45 - 4:45 pm. Grades K-8, $15/week. <br />
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<b>Tuesday, October 22</b><br />
Kaleidoscope Cooperative for Science and Math. Homeschool coop. Members only. 9:45 am - 3 pm. Grades K-12. REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR QUARTER 2.<br />
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<b>Wednesday, October 23</b><br />
Super Secret Science Challenge. One bag of mystery stuff. One hour to build. One super fun class! 1:30 - 2:30 pm starting 10/2 Grades K-8 $15/class.<br />
Programming in Scratch. Learn to create simple computer games using Scratch, a free, visually-based computer language. 3:30 - 5 pm. 4 weeks. Grades 4-9. $55/student.<br />
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<b>Thursday, October 24</b><br />
Web of Life: Halloween Edition. Explore the legends -- and the truth -- the creepy creatures and amazing plants that make Halloween fun! 3:30-4:30 pm, 4 weeks. Grades K-8, $60/student.<br />
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<b>Friday, October 25</b><br />
Friday Funday. Join us at St. Jude's Giving Tree for this fun program for 3-5 year olds! Lots of games, reading, crafts, science and more each week. 9 am - 12 pm. $15/student. Before and after care available.<br />
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<b>Mark Your Calendar Now</b><br />
FoodShed Alliance's Harvest Celebration. Saturday, October 26, 10 am to 2 pm. Magic show, science demos, face painting and pig roast! Free!<br />
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TREP$: Empowering Kids Through Entrepreneurship. Begins Wednesday, November 6. 3:30 - 4:45 pm, 6 weeks. Grades 4-8. $115/student, includes all materials.<br />
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One-Day Robotics Programming Intensive. Always wanted to build your own robot from the ground up? Want to learn to program a robot with Arduino? THIS is the class for you! Saturday, November 9, 9 am - 4 pm. $155 Basic Kit. $175 Advanced Kit.<br />
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A Steampunk Winter Solstice Celebration, a Kaleidoscope Fundraiser. Saturday, December 21 1 to 5 pm at Rutherfurd Hall, Allamuchy, NJ. Tickets start at $15. Fun for the whole family!<br />
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<i>Students should bring a filled, reusuable water bottle and small, nut-free snack to class.</i>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-72389646770547781262013-10-17T04:43:00.002-07:002013-10-17T04:47:51.069-07:00Kids Can CodeIn this day and age it isn't always enough for a student to be able to use a computer for game play, web browsing and word processing. The future needs them to be able to use computers in more advanced ways.<br />
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Luckily, it's becoming easier and easier for kids to learn to program and design technology. For example, there is <a href="http://scratch.mit.edu/" target="_blank">Scratch</a>, a tile-based visual programming language designed by MIT. Kids can use it to create stories, games, and animations then share them online as part of a community of other programmers. It's the perfect first language for kids to develop the thought processes needed for higher-level coding. Kaleidoscope <a href="http://www.klcnj.com/current-programs/to-go" target="_blank">offers classes in Scratch</a>, for exactly that reason.<br />
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The importance of coding is getting more and more recognition. In fact, a group technology superstars -- Microsoft's Bill Gates, Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, Susan Wojcicki of Google, to name a few -- have teamed up to create a nonprofit called <a href="http://code.org/">Code.org</a>. As a kick-start, they've issued a challenge for every school child to spend an hour programming in December. Is your school up to the challenge? (If your school needs help, Kaleidoscope can provide educational programs for students and training for teachers.)<br />
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But what if you child wants their efforts to be more real world than virtual? Welcome to the world of robotics! These days it's easier than ever to get started with building and programming your own machines. (For example, you could take Kaleidscope's <a href="https://bookwhen.com/ewph7/201311090900/dqx" target="_blank">Robotics One Day Intensive</a> on November 9!)<br />
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Many makers love to use <a href="http://www.arduino.cc/" target="_blank">Arduino</a>, an open-source electronics platform. It was designed for artists, designers, and hobbyists that want to create interactive objects, like robots! Arduino has a wide variety of hardware available -- for everything from robotic limbs to wearable electronics -- and it uses a programming language and software that is easy to learn, based on the popular C/C++. With components that are relatively inexpensive and a huge community of enthusiasts to draw from, it's no wonder that Arduino is fast becoming the standard.<br />
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Before you think this is all too complicated for kids, stop. There are young folks making amazing things these days. From <a href="http://sylviashow.com/" target="_blank">Super Awesome Sylvia </a>to <a href="http://robotgrrl.com/blog/" target="_blank">RoboGrrl</a>, kids are using their creativity to make some of the most amazing projects!<br />
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So this Winter, take some time to cozy up with your computer and really get to know it. Encourage your kids to code and create. Those skills will not only lead them to a life-time of exciting, fun projects, it will help them shape the future of technology.<br />
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<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-509682635292891752013-10-17T03:14:00.000-07:002013-10-17T03:14:10.105-07:00Super Secret Science Challenge THREE!Field Agent Misty must rush to save her partner, Special Agent Sunshine, from the forces of evil! You need to build her a car that can move quickly, quietly and without much steering. (Misty has tiny, little hands. After all, she's a rat.)<br />
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<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/_blTGQW2n0Y/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_blTGQW2n0Y?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_blTGQW2n0Y?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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This week's materials are:<br />
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<li>2 pieces of cardboard (make sure at least one piece is corrugated)</li>
<li>4 CDs</li>
<li>2 bamboo skewers</li>
<li>2 drinking straws</li>
<li>1 pipe cleaner</li>
<li>2 paper clips</li>
<li>6 various rubber bands</li>
<li>1 clothespin</li>
<li>1 binder clip </li>
<li>1 roll of masking tape</li>
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I also included 4 wooden hobby wheels and 4 pieces of wagon wheel pasta. I encourage you to look around and find other "wheels" to use -- try old tools, bottle caps, etc. </div>
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The challenge here is to build a car from the materials. The facilitator should set a track of 10 feet for students to run the cars. The goal for younger children may only be to create a car that can run straight for that distance. It's not as easy as it sounds! Older students should be encouraged to use the rubber bands to propel the car. This is more challenging.</div>
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In all cases, students should use the experience to develop an understanding of <a href="http://teacher.scholastic.com/dirtrep/simple/wheel.htm" target="_blank">how the wheel and axle works</a>. The wheel and axle is one of the simple machines, allowing vehicles to move with less friction. The size of the wheel in relationship to the axle affects the amount of work done by the machine. Encourage students to explore these ideas.</div>
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<a href="http://pbskids.org/designsquad/parentseducators/resources/rubber_band_car.html" target="_blank">To propel the car</a>, attach a rubber band to the front axle, then pull it to the back of the car and secure it. Wind the axle, release it, and the energy you built up in the rubber band will be released to turn the axle. It can take a few tries to get it right, but once you do, there are endless variations.</div>
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Several examples are presented in the video, and I wanted to share them here as well, so that you can take a good look if you like.</div>
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-62995425570510531202013-10-16T05:17:00.001-07:002013-10-16T05:17:04.352-07:00Dino Party Time!Recently, I was asked to help plan a dinosaur party for one of our Kaleidoscope Kids. Of course, I jumped at the chance! I knew it'd be a ton of fun to make this little girl's 3rd Birthday a blast!<br />
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Her mom is pretty darned crafty, so for an activity she created dino tails for each attendee. She used brightly colored sheets, which she cut into triangles and sewed together. Along the top seam she sewed ribbon in, to look like spikes. She stuffed them with newspaper and attached ribbon to hold them in place around their kids' waists. At the party, everyone used sparkling foam stickers to decorate their tails. It was a big hit!<br />
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To complete the dinosaur outfit, I made a pair of dinosaur foot stamps. I simply used a <a href="http://www.fun-pinata-party-ideas.com/image-files/dinosaur-footprint.jpg" target="_blank">template</a> of a foot to trace the shape onto some scrap plywood. Then I used a jigsaw to cut it out and a bit of sandpaper to take off the rough edges. I painted the tops of the feet with acrylic craft paint. Once that was dry, I traced and cut the template out of craft foam. Using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178MO58/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00178MO58&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">E6000</a>, I attached the foam to the bottom of the feet and trimmed as needed. I weighted these with a book and allowed them to dry overnight. In the morning I just attached elastic with a staple gun, so that kids could slip their feet into the elastic and wear them as "shoes."<br />
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At the party, I squirted <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00064MUQW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00064MUQW&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Crayola Sidewalk Chalk Paint</a> onto plates and had the kids step into it while wearing the dinosaur feet, then they stomped around making footprints on the pavement. The younger children needed some help getting the hang of it, but once they did, they created tracks everywhere!<br />
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After we were done playing dinosaur, it was time to dig for dinos. First we cracked open "rocks" that contained <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001DN8I0M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001DN8I0M&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">miniature dinosaurs</a> inside! To make the rocks, I used a recipe I found at <a href="http://www.survivingateacherssalary.com/diy-make-your-own-dinosaur-egg-dig-tutorial/" target="_blank">Surviving a Teacher's Salary</a>. Simply combine the following:<br />
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1 cup used coffee grinds</div>
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1 cup flour</div>
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1/2 cup salt</div>
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1/4 cup sand</div>
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up to 3/4 cup water</div>
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I doubled the recipe to make 12 rocks. Be very careful adding water! I added too much at first and had to add more flour. To make the rocks, I just grabbed a chunk of dough in my hand, placed the figure inside, and wrapped the dough around. It'll be sticky. Then I shaped it and place it on a lined cookie sheet. I baked them at 170 degrees for about an hour, flipping them once, until they were dried well.</div>
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The day of the party, we used tongue depressors to crack open our rocks and find the prize inside.</div>
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The last activity was a dinosaur treasure hunt. I used a long, low rubbermaid bin (the type for storing clothes under a bed) and filled it with two 50-pound bags of multi-purpose sand. Then the all kinds of dinosaur figures, special rocks and plastic plants were hidden in the sand. Our young paleontologists just LOVED this activity. The older kids enjoyed identifying all the dinos!</div>
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When the fun was winding down, the mom brought out her fabulous dinosaur cake. She cut her's free hand, but there are great <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CEJHRA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001CEJHRA&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">cake pans</a> available that make it even easier.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4WXBMWrVug/Ul6B05W_47I/AAAAAAAAB7k/4RR4KYoxZTA/s1600/1397327_716201511742629_867710222_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4WXBMWrVug/Ul6B05W_47I/AAAAAAAAB7k/4RR4KYoxZTA/s320/1397327_716201511742629_867710222_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, we handed out gift bags. The bags were just plain white paper gift bags, which I sprayed with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GPNLE6/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000GPNLE6&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">liquid watercolors</a> (green) and some <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0048IBZ68/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0048IBZ68&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">Perfect Pearls Mist</a> (heirloom gold). Then I used a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007SZ1SJW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007SZ1SJW&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">metallic bronze Sharpie</a> to write each child's name on the bag. I used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002USP7BC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002USP7BC&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">dinosaur foam stickers</a> to decorate the bags. Inside I added a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0084YMW8M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0084YMW8M&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">"Prehistoric Fern" plant</a> and a handful of stickers. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wj6KKWp9_Ds/Ul6B6Sr6etI/AAAAAAAAB78/W_w2VBygcP8/s1600/20131011_173401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wj6KKWp9_Ds/Ul6B6Sr6etI/AAAAAAAAB78/W_w2VBygcP8/s320/20131011_173401.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mom also made sure each attendee got a super cool <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0486407721/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0486407721&linkCode=as2&tag=kaleilearncen-20" target="_blank">dinosaur temporary tattoo</a> as well.</div>
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It was a really fun day, and I thank the Kelleher Family for making me a part of it!</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-23496068285072584792013-10-16T04:14:00.002-07:002013-10-16T04:14:22.986-07:00Ten Easy, Cheap Crafts for FallAt the Farmer's Market this week, I was asked if I had ideas for simple, inexpensive crafts kids could do at upcoming Halloween and Thanksgiving events. Are you kidding? Of course, I do!<br />
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So here we go: Ten Easy, Cheap Crafts for Fall!<br />
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1. <b>Paper Plate Scarecrow Faces</b> -- Make them pretty, or make them spooky; either way this craft is a ton of fun for everyone. Just use standard paper plates as the head. Cut triangles of colored paper for the hats. Googly eyes add a lot of fun, and the rest of the face can be drawn on. Strips of paper or some raffia make great hair. That's it! Let the kids get creative!<br />
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2. <b>Paper Plate Jack-o-Lanterns</b> -- This is a classic, but I have an update to make it so much easier and less messy! Usually you'd paint the plate a bright orange, let it dry, and then attach the elements for the face. But that takes a lot of time. Instead use squares of tissue paper attached with a glue stick! You can buy them precut or make your own easily. Then just add construction paper eyes, nose and mouth. So easy!<br />
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3. <b>Toilet Paper Roll Owls</b> -- Folded and cut cupcake liners become wings and feathers when added to a toilet paper roll using a glue stick. Use markers to add a cute face. And of course, googly eyes. I just love googly eyes. A little black paint or a black marker, and these make great bats too!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsxeTwAdfYs/Ul0qNJNVCHI/AAAAAAAAB5Y/cYbwxxsLZEY/s1600/2012-10-13+10.20.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rsxeTwAdfYs/Ul0qNJNVCHI/AAAAAAAAB5Y/cYbwxxsLZEY/s320/2012-10-13+10.20.07.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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4. <b>Toilet Paper Roll Mummies</b> -- I found <a href="http://happyhooligans.ca/toilet-roll-mummies/" target="_blank">this idea</a> on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/226798531208294080/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and it's just TOO cute! Just wrap a toilet paper roll in tissue paper, gauze or, well, toilet paper, using a glue stick to keep it attached. Use twine or yarn to add texture. Top it off with googly eyes. Ta da! Perfect little mummies!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSmJSNlCIcs/Ul0nk6pgrfI/AAAAAAAAB40/DDFHZ-sA_9M/s1600/IMG_3860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MSmJSNlCIcs/Ul0nk6pgrfI/AAAAAAAAB40/DDFHZ-sA_9M/s320/IMG_3860.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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5. <b>Duct Tape Spider</b> -- Everyone loves duct tape crafts! This one, <a href="http://leisureartsblog.blogspot.com/2012/09/free-duct-tape-halloween-spider-project.html" target="_blank">from Leisure Arts</a>, is so simple, just about anyone can pull it off. Use newspaper or a plastic bag to create a ball, about the size of an adult fist. Squish it a bit to flatten it. Use a bit of masking tape to secure this ball. Cover with duct tape. Take four pipe cleaners and twist them together in the center to form a bundle, then tape them to the underside of the spider. (Cover them with additional duct tape for extra drama.) Add googly eyes and your have a great creepy creature. Tip: Use solid color duct tapes if you're on a budget. You get more tape per roll.<br />
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6.<b> Pine Cone Turkey</b> -- Dip colorful feathers in Elmer's Glue and attach them to the wide end of a pine cone. Use a little Model Magic clay to form a head. A small piece of corn makes a great beak. Attach eyes, have a great decoration for your table! Don't have clay? Try <a href="http://www.plaidkidscrafts.com/2011/11/22/TuesdayKidsTalkRecycledThanksgivingCrafts.aspx" target="_blank">this version of a turkey</a> without it.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LSz_i5KKcVs/Ul0qLJZLj2I/AAAAAAAAB5M/bHujMW-H72c/s1600/2012-11-21+14.33.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LSz_i5KKcVs/Ul0qLJZLj2I/AAAAAAAAB5M/bHujMW-H72c/s320/2012-11-21+14.33.21.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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7.<b> Lots of Leaf Crafts</b> -- You can do SO many things with just the leaves from your back yard! Just collect a tons of pretty dried leaves. From there you can create a tons of great crafts. Start by pressing them in between sheets of clear contact paper for bookmarks or punch a hole to string them on yarn as a necklace. Or use glitter glue to lightly coat the leaves for sparkly garland or necklaces. Or lightly coat the leaves in paint and press them to paper as stamps. You can also place them under paper, vein side up, and use crayons to create rubbings. Cut the center out of a paper plate and use glue to attach leaves around the rim, creating a pretty wreath. And then there is my personal favorite: Attach the leaves to <a href="http://www.firstpalette.com/tool_box/printables/masquerademask.html" target="_blank">mask shapes</a>, cut from card stock. Add feathers, plastic jewels and stickers to create fabulous masks. Use ribbon wear it, or attach to the popsicle stick for a held version.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rGz-BDqQwDk/Ul0vqeL4T_I/AAAAAAAAB58/5sRkvRH6pFY/s1600/2012-10-08+11.29.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rGz-BDqQwDk/Ul0vqeL4T_I/AAAAAAAAB58/5sRkvRH6pFY/s320/2012-10-08+11.29.15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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8. <b>Corn Prints</b> -- Kids love breaking out the paint. Why not give them something fun to paint with? Try taking dried corn on the cob (like Indian Corn), rolling it in paint, then rolling it or pressing it onto paper. You can make tons of great patterns this way. While you're at it, cut open an apple and use it as a stamp. Try using things like gourds and acorn squash as stamps too.</div>
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9. <b>Corn Bin </b>-- This one is great for younger children and provides a wonderful sensory experience. Just fill a bin with feeder corn (a.k.a. deer corn) and hide all kinds of fall themed items in it. Then they can go on a treasure hunt.<br />
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10. <b>Monster Paper Bag Puppets</b> -- This craft couldn't be simpler. Give kids lunch bags. (I like the plain brown or white versions, but colored bags, sold as party gift bags are lots of fun too.) Print out some fun monster face pieces, like<a href="http://thecreativepaige.com/2011/10/build-your-own-monster-face.html" target="_blank"> these free ones</a>. You can just use regular paper and a glue stick to attach, or print them onto sticker paper. Use additional stickers, markers, sequins, plastic gems, feathers, etc. to add bling.<br />
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So I hope these fun crafts make your holiday parties and events more fun and creative. Enjoy!</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-86610886381321033362013-10-15T03:27:00.000-07:002013-10-15T03:33:13.405-07:00The SECOND Super Secret Science ChallengeThis is a great super secret science challenge all about bridges. Try your hand at structural engineering and have a lot of fun too! Help The Weather Weasel cross between two buildings using only gumdrops, marshmallows and toothpicks as supplies!<br />
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Materials List (for each group):<br />
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<ul>
<li>1 bag of spice drops </li>
<li>1 cup of mini marshmallows</li>
<li>1 box of round toothpicks (250 count)</li>
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For the challenge, students must build a 2-foot long bridge that is at least the height of a toothpick that can hold a 3 pound weight placed in the center of the bridge. Once they have accomplished that, they must raise the bridge off the table or desk and have it suspended over air for a span of six inches. The height the bridge is raised can vary, but using two identical textbooks on either side of the bridge is practical.<br />
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Be aware that spice drops and gum drops, while generally allergen free, are often processed in facilities that handle nuts, dairy, wheat and soy, so allergies can be an issue. My sensitive students were able to wear gloves to protect their skin. For alternatives and allergen free options, check out <a href="http://surefoodsliving.com/2013/10/gluten-free-allergen-free-halloween-candy-guide-2013/" target="_blank">this list</a> at Sure Foods Living.<br />
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For the super accurate scientific model of The Weather Weasel, I filled a white men's tube sock with rice until it weighed 3 pounds (the approximate weight of my ferret). This weigh presents a fun challenge, not just because of the weight, but because it's floppy and molds itself to the bridge. It also requires a wider bridge than students might normally choose to make when they are focused on the length of the bridge. This is good, because a wider bridge is more stable. If you don't have a super accurate scientific model available, try stacking books on the bridge instead.<br />
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With younger students, have them focus first building a sturdy structure directly on a flat surface. They may not get past that point, and that's just fine. Have them focus in on the shapes they use: triangle versus square, pyramid versus cube. Encourage students to "prototype" a small span of bridge before committing to a larger length.<br />
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And just in case you hear, "That's impossible!," let me assure you it is not. Here are some awesome pictures of past creations!<br />
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<span id="goog_593484360"></span><span id="goog_593484361"></span>Want to learn more about bridges? Check out "<a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/bridge/" target="_blank">Building Big</a>" by PBS.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1906075614489445292.post-5377687409392897412013-10-10T06:32:00.004-07:002013-10-17T03:28:24.717-07:00ExplosionsIf there is one thing <strike>kids</strike> people love, it's explosions. And studying these kinds of reactions are an exciting way to explore chemistry.<br />
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I usually like to start small, with reactions kids may have seen before and that are safe for them to play with. Mixtures of baking soda and vinegar are a classic, but try swapping out the vinegar with other acids (lemon juice, for example). And if you have a thermometer, watch for the temperature drop as the reaction takes place. You can also do the reaction in a soda bottle, topped with a balloon, to show that carbon dioxide is generated during the reaction.<br />
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Another fun reaction is yeast and peroxide. Personally, I go for the easy packet of yeast directly into a cup of 3% peroxide from the grocery store. It yields lots of foamy fun. You can also make a solution of dry yeast in warm water, so that the little guys are awake and active before mixing, to see if that affects the reaction. My friend Elizabeth McCarthy from South Mountain Coop, also does the reaction with frozen peroxide and dry yeast. Because the reaction is exothermic (it generates heat), the reaction itself melts the peroxide and drives the reaction further.<br />
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One more classic reaction is Mentos and Coke. You can do a demonstration of a full roll of mint Mentos into a 2-liter bottle of diet Coke, which has considerable "Wow" factor, of course. But it's a great opportunity for scientific exploration as well. Give the kids several types of soda and candy, and have them work through various combinations. (There is a great<a href="http://dsc.discovery.com/tv-shows/mythbusters/videos/diet-coke-and-mentos-minimyth.htm" target="_blank"> Mythbusters episode</a> on this reaction, which I encourage you to watch.)<br />
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Slightly more dangerous, and requiring a brief safety warning, are dry ice experiments. The sublimation process that allows the frozen carbon dioxide to go directly to gas is both scientifically interesting and fun to watch. It's important to note to students that, though we call this substance ice, it is not water at all, but rather a completely different material, created through pressure and deep freeze. After letting students observe pelleted dry ice for a while, add warm water and create some fog. Then add a bit of dish detergent -- the resultant bubbles filled with fog are very exciting and perfectly safe to touch. Later the foam will freeze into "snowballs" which are also fun for play, especially at the height of summer.<br />
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From there you can move into more dangerous reactions. One of my favorites is burning magnesium ribbon in a block of dry ice. Not only does this look really cool, but the resulting residue, a ribbon of white MgO covering a core of black carbon, is neat. Older students may enjoy discussing how you get this layered effect. (The chemistry behind this reaction is <a href="http://www.chem.umn.edu/services/lecturedemo/info/Magnesium_and_dry_ice.html" target="_blank">available online</a>.) Be sure to remind students not to look directly at the light; it's extremely bright!<br />
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Then there is my favorite reaction, the most dangerous one I personally do: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thermite" target="_blank">thermite</a>. A mixture of powdered metal and a metal oxide, when heated the combination undergoes an exothermic oxidation-reduction reaction that sends sparks flying. And it is awesome. This is the stuff used in welding and fireworks. After everything cools, you can retrieve the blob of iron left behind as a fond memory of your favorite explosions.<br />
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