WOW! DIY
WOW! DIY is a free resource for parents and families full of quick and easy STEM activities to do at home.
We offer fun and educational activities for all ages:
- Many are simple enough for young children to do with little assistance.
- New vocabulary and more advanced ideas are introduced for older students.
- The activities can be done with materials that are inexpensive and easy to find.
Our goal is to increase an appreciation of STEM with these hands-on learning experiences - whether it meets a specific educational need or is completed for pure enjoyment.
Scientists, like students, learn by observing, describing, and experimenting in the many subjects and branches of science.
Share your feedback!
We would love to hear about your experience with WOW! DIY.
What kind of Science are you interested in?
Life Science
The sciences that focus on life and living organisms
Earth Science
The sciences that focus on planet Earth to outer space
Physical Science
The sciences that focus on nonliving things
(Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy)
Life on Earth is possible because of our awesome atmosphere! Use this activity to learn more about the layers of gas that blanket our planet.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
2nd grade: The atmosphere is primarily made up of air.
7th grade: The atmosphere has different properties at different elevations and contains a mixture of gases that cycle through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
Build a barometer and learn how to use it to track pressure changes in the atmosphere.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
2nd grade: The atmosphere is primarily made up of air.
2nd grade: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
7th grade: The atmosphere has different properties at different elevations and contains a mixture of gases that cycle through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
In the fall the leaves of trees seem to transform. Using the power of chromatography discover what pigments might be hiding out of sight year round.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
5th grade: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
6th grade: Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
7th grade: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Have you ever wondered how clouds were formed? Learn about this process and create your own cloud in a jar!
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
2nd grade: The atmosphere is primarily made up of air.
2nd grade: Water is present in the atmosphere.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
7th grade: Thermal-energy transfers in the ocean and the atmosphere contribute to the formation of currents, which influence global climate patterns.
7th grade: The hydrologic cycle illustrates the changing states of water as it moves through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
7th grade: The atmosphere has different properties at different elevations and contains a mixture of gases that cycle through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
High School, Physical Science - Study of Matter: Reactions of matter
High School, Environmental Science - Earth’s Resources: Soil and land
Learn more about the science of stars as you build your own constellation collection.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
High School – The Universe: History of the universe
High School – The Universe: Stars
Have a blast experimenting with erosion. Build your structure up and wear it down.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
3rd grade: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
4th grade: Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to weathering.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
6th grade: Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
8th grade: A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
High School, Physical Science - Study of Matter: Reactions of matter
High School, Environmental Science - Earth’s Resources: Soil and land
Build your own water filtration system.
- The video expands on the concepts of adsorption vs absorption, as well as offers tips on where to get supplies. This activity could be connected to the Engineering Design Process by challenging the students to create the best possible filter with the supplies they have available to them.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
3rd grade: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
4th grade: Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to weathering.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
6th grade: Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
8th grade: A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
High School, Physical Science - Study of Matter: Reactions of matter
High School, Environmental Science - Earth’s Resources: Soil and land
Nature is full of living and non-living things. Make a nature journal and take a walk in your neighborhood to explore the diversity of the things around you.
- Although this activity was designed for younger students, it could easily be adjusted into a biodiversity study for older students.
- For example, select a location and define an area (about 100ft x 100ft). - In that area how many different types of plants and animals did you find? How does this differ from other ecosystems (your yard vs a forest or meadow)? In the forest, how many old growth trees are there? How many young trees (this can be differentiated by the girth of the trunk)? There are many options! You could also evaluate amount of light and soil type!
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
3rd grade: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Biodiversity
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Ecosystems
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
3rd grade: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
4th grade: Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
High School, Environmental Science - Earth Systems and Interconnected Spheres of Earth: Biosphere
High School, Environmental Science – Earth’s Resources: Wildlife and wilderness
Learn about the phases of the moon, and how they are created by its position in relation to the Earth and Sun. As a bonus, clean-up for this activity is quite delicious.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
7th grade: The relative patterns of motion and positions of Earth, moon and sun cause solar and lunar eclipses, tides and phases of the moon.
Learn about geology and the rock cycle! Go on an adventure to gather and then analyze your own rock collection!
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
3rd grade: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to weathering.
4th grade: The surface of Earth changes due to erosion and deposition.
6th grade: Minerals have specific, quantifiable properties.
6th grade: Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks have unique characteristics that can be used for identification and/or classification.
6th grade: Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks form in different ways.
6th grade: Rocks, mineral and soils have common and practical uses.
8th grade: A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
8th grade: Evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time is found in the geologic record.
High School, Physical Geology - Minerals
High School, Physical Geology - Igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks
Shake things up by building your own model seismograph while learning more about the science behind earthquakes.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
8th grade: The composition and properties of Earth’s interior are identified by the behavior of seismic waves.
8th grade: Earth’s lithosphere consists of major and minor tectonic plates that move relative to each other.
8th grade: A combination of constructive and destructive geologic processes formed Earth’s surface.
8th grade: Evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time is found in the geologic record.
High School, Environmental Science – Interconnected Spheres of Earth: Lithosphere
Wild Weather: This experiment models the behavior of weather fronts, which drive a lot of the wild weather we observe!
Harness the power of the sun to make your very own solar oven.
- With some adjustments, this activity would be a great option to introduce the Engineering Design Process to students. Some of the materials used can also be easily substituted.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
3rd grade: Earth’s resources can be used for energy.
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
7th grade: Energy can be transformed or transferred but is never lost.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
High School, Environmental Science – Earth’s Resources: Energy resources.
Learn about SPF and how sunscreen can protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. Do an experiment to test which kind of sunscreen works best.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
5th grade: The sun is one of many stars that exist in the universe.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
7th grade: The relative positions of Earth and the sun cause patterns we call seasons.
Build your own sundial and learn more about how they work.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
7th grade: The relative positions of Earth and the sun cause patterns we call seasons.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
5th grade: Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
The water cycle is essential to life! Learn about the process and how important it is to our planet.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
2nd grade: Water is present in the atmosphere.
7th grade: The hydrologic cycle illustrates the changing states of water as it moves through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
This experiment models the behavior of weather fronts, which drive a lot of the wild weather we observe!
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
2nd grade: The atmosphere is primarily made up of air.
2nd grade: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
Blow your friends away by building your own anemometer. Use it to measure wind speed.
- This demo could also be used in teaching the Engineering Design Process to students. The type or amount of materials used could be made into constraints as students create a windmill capable of doing work using household items. You could also use this showing the importance of collecting and tracking data.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
2nd grade: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
High School, Environmental Science – Earth’s Resources: Energy resources
Grow bacterial cultures after preparing your own home-made petri dishes.
- What surfaces in your home can you test?
- Write your own hypothesis to test.
- Will you test different hand sanitizers?
- Swab under your finger nail before and after washing your hands – is there a difference?
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
4th grade: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
6th grade: Cells are the fundamental unit of life.
6th grade: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
High School, Biology - Cells: Cell structure and function.
In the fall the leaves of trees seem to transform. Using the power of chromatography discover what pigments might be hiding out of sight year round.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
5th grade: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
6th grade: Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
7th grade: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Learn more about the worm’s role in our ecosystem by building your own worm composting farm.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
Kindergarten: Living things have physical traits and behaviors, which influence their survival.
1st grade: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
1st grade: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
2nd grade: Living things cause changes on Earth.
4th grade: Changes in an organism’s environment are sometimes beneficial to its survival and sometimes harmful.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
7th grade: In any particular biome, the number, growth and survival of organisms and populations depend on biotic and abiotic factors.
High School, Biology - Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Ecosystems
Learn the basics of DNA structure and how to decipher the code inside!
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
2nd grade: All organisms alive today result from their ancestors, some of which may be extinct. Not all kinds of organisms that lived in the past are represented by living organisms today.
3rd grade: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
6th grade: Cells are the fundamental unit of life.
6th grade: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
8th grade: Diversity of species, a result of variation of traits, occurs through the process of evolution and extinction over many generations. The fossil records provide evidence that changes have occurred in number and types of species.
8th grade: Every organism alive today comes from a long line of ancestors who reproduced successfully every generation.
8th grade: The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
High School, Biology – Heredity: Cellular genetics
High School, Biology – Heredity: Structure and function of DNA in cells
High School, Biology – Heredity: Genetic mechanisms and inheritance
High School, Biology – Heredity: Mutations
High School, Biology – Heredity: Modern genetics
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes
An organism’s DNA contains its genetic code. Learn how to break open a cell and separate out its DNA. Young children will enjoy it, but will require adult assistance. Older students can do this independently, and the activity easily connects with more advanced coursework.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
3rd grade: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
6th grade: Cells are the fundamental unit of life.
6th grade: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
8th grade: The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
High School, Biology - Heredity
This activity is a great (and delicious) introduction into the fascinating world of genetics!
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
3rd grade: Offspring resemble their parents and each other.
6th grade: Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function.
3rd grade: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
8th grade: Diversity of species, a result of variation of traits, occurs through the process of evolution and extinction over many generations. The fossil records provide evidence that changes have occurred in number and types of species.
8th grade: Every organism alive today comes from a long line of ancestors who reproduced successfully every generation.
8th grade: The characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from parent(s).
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Biodiversity
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Genetic diversity
High School, Biology – Heredity: Cellular genetics
High School, Biology – Heredity: Genetic mechanisms and inheritance
High School, Biology – Heredity: Modern genetics
Create a model lung that demonstrates what happens when you take a deep breath.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
High School, Chemistry – Interactions of Matter: Gas laws
Nature is full of living and non-living things. Make a nature journal and take a walk in your neighborhood to explore the diversity of the things around you.
- Although this activity was designed for younger students, it could easily be adjusted into a biodiversity study for older students.
- For example, select a location and define an area (about 100ft x 100ft). - In that area how many different types of plants and animals did you find? How does this differ from other ecosystems (your yard vs a forest or meadow)? In the forest, how many old growth trees are there? How many young trees (this can be differentiated by the girth of the trunk)? There are many options! You could also evaluate amount of light and soil type!
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things survive only in environments that meet their needs.
3rd grade: Plants and animals have life cycles that are part of their adaptations for survival in their natural environments.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Biodiversity
High School, Biology – Diversity and Interdependence of Life: Ecosystems
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
3rd grade: Earth’s nonliving resources have specific properties.
4th grade: Earth’s surface has specific characteristics and landforms that can be identified.
High School, Environmental Science - Earth Systems and Interconnected Spheres of Earth: Biosphere
High School, Environmental Science – Earth’s Resources: Wildlife and wilderness
Use gummy bears to experiment with osmosis, a process that occurs in our bodies every day.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
4th grade: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
6th grade: Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes/.
Test your reaction time. Use your sight, your hearing, and your sense of touch. This activity reinforces collecting data, calculating an average, and the need for multiple tests to prove your hypothesis and result – just like what you’ve learned for your Science Fair presentations. One measurement is never enough in science.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
3rd grade: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Support and Motion: Muscular system
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Integration and Coordination: Nervous System
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Integration and Coordination: Special Senses
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
3rd grade: Developing understanding of multiplication and division and strategies for multiplication and division within 100.
6th grade, Expressions and Equations: Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
7th grade, Expressions and Equations: Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
Try these fun experiments to learn about center of gravity.
Although simple enough for younger students, the principles behind how this works makes it educational for older students as well.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic, or gravitational fields.
High School - Forces and Motion: Forces
High School, Physics - Energy: Gravitational potential energy
Bridges are amazing feats of engineering. Learn about the forces that keep them standing and challenge yourself to build the strongest model bridge you can.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School – Forces and Motion: Forces
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum, and Motions: Gravitational force and fields
Blowing bubbles is fun for all ages, try our experiments to learn more about how bubbles are formed and then mix your own homemade bubble solution.
Older students can learn more about surface tension and molecular attraction.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
3rd grade: All objects and substances in the natural world are composed of matter.
4th grade: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
High School, Chemistry - Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Crystals are beautiful, and when made from candy they are delicious. How are they formed?
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
3rd grade: All objects and substances in the natural world are composed of matter.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
High School - Study of Matter: Classification of matter
Build your very own catapult!
- What a great way to introduce the concepts of force, energy, and motion to younger students.
- Older students can modify the activity. Can you find ways to make them stronger? Can you find ways to make them launch further? What are different projectiles you could use? Does the projectile affect the distance?
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
6th grade: There are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
6th grade: An object’s motion can be described by its speed and the direction in which it is moving.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School - Forces and Motion: Dynamics (how forces affect motion)
High School - Forces and Motion: Motion
In the fall the leaves of trees seem to transform. Using the power of chromatography discover what pigments might be hiding out of sight year round.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
Kindergarten: Living things have specific characteristics and traits.
1st grade: Living things have basic needs, which are met by obtaining materials from the physical environment.
5th grade: Organisms perform a variety of roles in an ecosystem.
5th grade: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
6th grade: Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
7th grade: Energy flows and matter is transferred continuously from one organism to another and between organisms and their physical environments.
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Learn more about the science of stars as you build your own constellation collection.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
High School – The Universe: History of the universe
High School – The Universe: Stars
Have you ever noticed how water beads on some surfaces and spreads on others? This activity will help explain this phenomenon and teach you a common method for measuring what is known as wettability.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Perform fun chromatography experiments (moving a substance through a different substance) with paper and a flower using the power of capillary action.
- The first activity is best suited for 6th grade and up, while the second activity is fun for all ages. The principles behind these processes can be connected to high school level concepts, but mastery or understanding at this level is not necessary, and lack of understanding will not diminish the learning experience for younger students.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
4th grade: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
High School, Chemistry - Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Create your own density jar - learn more about density and investigate color mixing.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
High School – Study of Matter: Classification of matter
High School, Chemistry - Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Crack the case of what happens to an eggshell when it’s exposed to vinegar.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
3rd grade: All objects and substances in the natural world are composed of matter.
4th grade: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
7th grade: Matter can be separated or changed, but in a closed system, the number and types of atoms remains constant.
High School, Chemistry - Interactions of Matter: Chemical reactions
Have you ever wondered how a boat floats? Submerge yourself in these experiments to better understand these physical phenomena.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
High School - Forces and Motion: Forces
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
3rd grade: Developing understanding of multiplication and division and strategies for multiplication and division within 100.
3rd grade: Solving multi-step problems.
4th grade: Developing an understanding and fluency with multi-digit multiplication, and developing understanding of dividing to find quotients involving multi-digit dividends.
6th grade: Connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems.
6th grade: Solving problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
7th grade: Solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, angles, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
An activity for younger students to discover what is so special about dry erase markers and use this knowledge to do amazing experiments.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
Up in the sky, it’s a plane! But how does it stay up there? This activity introduces the forces of flight. Experiment with different paper airplane designs, then make modifications to explore how they alter your planes behavior.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
6th grade: TThere are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
6th grade: An object’s motion can be described by its speed and the direction in which it is moving.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
While learning about friction as a force you can build and experiment with your own model hovercraft. Then, hypothesize and experiment further.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
6th grade: There are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
6th grade: An object’s motion can be described by its speed and the direction in which it is moving.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum and Motion: Friction force (static and kinetic)
Using Jello-0 and a laser pointer gives you the power to bend light.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
5th grade: Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
High School – Energy and Waves: Waves
High School, Physics - Waves: Wave properties
High School, Physics - Waves: Light phenomena
Create your own magic sand that will hold its shape in water. Peak into the world of nanotechnology.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
All Scientists need to make observations. Making observations, recording them, and sharing them with others is essential to advancing knowledge. This activity will allow you to practice this skill. Make it a game and work with friends.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
Create a special piece of artwork using molecular attractions.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
Experiment with the science of sound. This activity could be used as a part of a music lesson as well as used to introduce or reinforce the idea of sound as a wave transferring energy, and the principle of pitch. You could even download a simple wave app and “see” your sounds.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Some objects and materials can be made to vibrate and produce sound.
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
5th grade: Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
High School – Energy and Waves: Waves
Use gummy bears to experiment with osmosis, a process that occurs in our bodies every day.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
4th grade: When objects break into smaller pieces, dissolve, or change state, the total amount of matter is conserved.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
6th grade: Cells carry on specific functions that sustain life.
High School, Biology – Cells: Cellular processes.
Build and test a variety of different shaped parachutes. Then use what you learn to create your own design.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
8th grade Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
6th grade: Solving problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
7th grade, Geometry: Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, volume, and surface area of two- and three-dimensional objects composed of triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, cubes, and right prisms.
Create a pH indicator to find out if substances in your house are acids or bases. The science behind this activity is more appropriate for older learners, but that doesn’t mean that the younger ones won’t still enjoy being amazed.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade1: Properties of objects and materials can change.
High School – Study of Matter: Classification of matter
High School, Chemistry – Interactions of Matter: Chemical reactions
Three, two, one, blast off!! Learn the basic principles to rocket science and then use a chemical reaction to launch a rocket of your own!
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
6th grade: There are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
6th grade: An object’s motion can be described by its speed and the direction in which it is moving.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School, Physical Science – Study of Matter: Reactions of matter
High School, Physical Science – Energy and Waves: Conservation of energy
High School, Physical Science – Energy and Waves: Transfer and transformation of energy (including work)
High School, Physical Science – Forces and Motion: Forces
High School, Physical Science – Forces and Motion: Dynamics (how forces affect motion)
High School, Chemistry – Interactions of Matter: Gas laws
High School, Physics - Motion: Projectile Motion
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum and Motion: Newton’s laws applied to complex problems
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum and Motion: Air resistance and drag
Learn how the concentration of liquids affects density, and then create a rainbow by layering the liquids according to how dense they are.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
High School – Study of Matter: Classification of matter
High School, Chemistry – Structure and Properties of Matter: Intermolecular forces of attraction
High School, Chemistry – Interactions of Matter: Chemical reactions
High School, Chemistry – Interactions of Matter: Stoichiometry
Build your own electromagnetic motor.
Younger students may need assistance, but will enjoy their end result.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
6th grade: There are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
6th grade: An object’s motion can be described by its speed and the direction in which it is moving.
7th grade: Energy can be transformed or transferred but is never lost.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School – Energy and Waves: Waves
High School – Energy and Waves: Electricity
Learn about the electromagnetic spectrum and build an instrument that will allow you to investigate the different types of light around you.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
5th grade: Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
High School – Energy and Waves: Waves
High School, Physics - Waves: Light phenomena
Learn about polymers and make your own slime.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
Kindergarten: Objects and materials can be sorted and described by their properties.
1st grade: Properties of objects and materials can change.
3rd grade: All objects and substances in the natural world are composed of matter.
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum and Motion: Elastic forces
Create your own spinning top and experiment to discover how it can stay upright and spin.
- This activity is simple enough for young children to complete and enjoy. Yet, the principles behind how and why it works are interesting and educational for older students as well.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
1st grade: Objects can be moved in a variety of ways, such as straight, zigzag, circular and back and forth.
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
4th grade: Energy can be transferred from one location to another or can be transformed from one form to another.
6th grade: There are two categories of energy: kinetic and potential.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
8th grade: Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
High School - Forces and Motion: Forces
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum, and Motion: Friction force (static and kinetic)
High School, Physics – Forces, Momentum, and Motion: Forces in two dimensions
Build your own sundial and learn more about how they work.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: The moon, sun and stars can be observed at different times of the day or night.
1st grade: The sun is the principal source of energy.
5th grade: Most of the cycles and patterns of motion between the Earth and sun are predictable.
7th grade: The relative positions of Earth and the sun cause patterns we call seasons.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
5th grade: Light and sound are forms of energy that behave in predictable ways.
The water cycle is essential to life! Learn about the process and how important it is to our planet.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
1st grade: Water on Earth is present in many forms.
2nd grade: Water is present in the atmosphere.
7th grade: The hydrologic cycle illustrates the changing states of water as it moves through the lithosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
This experiment models the behavior of weather fronts, which drive a lot of the wild weather we observe!
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
2nd grade: The atmosphere is primarily made up of air.
2nd grade: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
3rd grade: Matter exists in different states, each of which has different properties.
3rd grade: Heat, electrical energy, light, sound and magnetic energy are forms of energy.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
6th grade: Changes of state are explained by a model of matter composed of particles that are in motion.
Blow your friends away by building your own anemometer. Use it to measure wind speed.
- This demo could also be used in teaching the Engineering Design Process to students. The type or amount of materials used could be made into constraints as students create a windmill capable of doing work using household items. You could also use this showing the importance of collecting and tracking data.
Possible ODE standard connections: Earth and Space Science
Kindergarten: Weather changes are long-term and short-term.
2nd grade: Long- and short-term weather changes occur due to changes in energy.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
7th grade: Energy can be transferred through a variety of ways.
High School, Environmental Science – Earth’s Resources: Energy resources
Crack the code! Set the conditions to guess the card.
Possible ODE standard connections:
Although this activity meets no direct standards, it is a great way to introduce the idea of a conditional statement, a common tool used in programming. It can also be useful in introducing the idea of coding (computers, ciphers, or even DNA) as well as an excellent exercise for building teamwork.
Have you ever wondered how a boat floats? Submerge yourself in these experiments to better understand these physical phenomena.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
5th grade: The amount of change in movement of an object is based on the mass of the object and the amount of force exerted.
6th grade: Matter is made up of small particles called atoms.
7th grade: Elements can be organized by properties.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
High School - Forces and Motion: Forces
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
3rd grade: Developing understanding of multiplication and division and strategies for multiplication and division within 100.
3rd grade: Solving multi-step problems.
4th grade: Developing an understanding and fluency with multi-digit multiplication, and developing understanding of dividing to find quotients involving multi-digit dividends.
6th grade: Connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems.
6th grade: Solving problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
7th grade: Solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, angles, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
Build and test a variety of different shaped parachutes. Then use what you learn to create your own design.
Possible ODE standard connections: Physical Science
2nd grade: Forces change the motion of an object.
8th grade: Objects can experience a force due to an external field such as magnetic, electrostatic or gravitational fields.
8th grade Forces can act to change the motion of objects.
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
6th grade: Solving problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
7th grade, Geometry: Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, volume, and surface area of two- and three-dimensional objects composed of triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, cubes, and right prisms.
What are the odds that after tossing a coin in the air, it lands heads up? This is a fun way to introduce students to probability. It will also allow them to practice working with fractions, multiplication, and division.
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
3rd grade, Numbers and Operations - Fractions: Understand a fraction 1/b as the quantity formed by 1 part when a whole is partitioned into b equal parts; understand a fraction a/b as the quantity formed by a parts of size 1/b.
4th grade, Numbers and Operations - Fractions: Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication to multiply a fraction by a whole number.
5th grade: All of the processes that take place within organisms require energy.
5th grade, Numbers and Operations - Fractions: Interpret a fraction as division of the numerator by the denominator (a/b= a ÷ b).
High School, Statistics and Probability: Understand statistics as a process for making inferences about population parameters based on a random sample from that population.
High School, Statistics and Probability: Decide if a specified model is consistent with results from a given data-generating process
Make your own DIY dice from paper and then dabble with game design while testing your math skills. This DIY could be further extended into learning about probabilities.
The video expands on the concepts of adsorption vs absorption, as well as offers tips on where to get supplies. This activity could be connected to the Engineering Design Process by challenging the students to create the best possible filter with the supplies they have available to them.
Possible ODE standard connections:
The standards met vary according to your game design. Many different math standards could be met, but this activity could also be used to reinforce teamwork, collaboration, following directions, creativity and critical thinking (game design process) and physical fitness (i.e. if you roll a 3 do x amount of jumping jacks).
Test your reaction time. Use your sight, your hearing, and your sense of touch. This activity reinforces collecting data, calculating an average, and the need for multiple tests to prove your hypothesis and result – just like what you’ve learned for your Science Fair presentations. One measurement is never enough in science.
Possible ODE standard connections: Life Science
3rd grade: Individuals of the same kind of organism differ in their inherited traits. These differences give some individuals an advantage in surviving and/or reproducing.
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Support and Motion: Muscular system
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Integration and Coordination: Nervous System
High School, Human Anatomy and Physiology – Integration and Coordination: Special Senses
Possible ODE standard connections: Math
3rd grade: Developing understanding of multiplication and division and strategies for multiplication and division within 100.
6th grade, Expressions and Equations: Write, read, and evaluate expressions in which letters stand for numbers.
7th grade, Expressions and Equations: Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
Build your own robotic arm, like the one used by NASA.
Possible ODE standard connections:
This demo supports the ODE goal that students have an understanding of the Nature of Science – an umbrella over all of the content standards the foundation for science instruction.
- Scientific Inquiry.
- Practice and Applications: Apply knowledge of science content to real-world challenges.
- Science is a Human Endeavor: People from many generations and nations contribute to science knowledge.
If you need assistance modifying an activity to fit your needs or have questions on where to get materials or possible substitutions, please reach out to us. We can also advise you on another activity that connects to the one you’ve selected. Please continue to check back for even more WOW! DIY activities.
Sources: ducksters.com; britannica.com; kids.britannica.com; ntnu.edu; medium.com; kidsconnect.com; study.com; physics4kids.com; chem4kids.com; biology4kids.com;