HowtoSmile: Explora Activity Catalog
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Coding Algorithms
Card Games
Algorithms are a repeatable series of steps that, when followed, complete a task. Computers use algorithms all the time to solve problems and perform various tasks. The directions you wrote are an algorithm for getting through the maze. There is often more than one way to complete a task, so there can be more than one algorithm for any given task.
Design a Seed
Nature and Environment
In this activity, learners will design a seed and test how it travels. Use the Engineering Design Process to create a seed which can move from place to place. Activity includes step-by-step instructions, "what's the science" section that explains the science behind the activity, and extension ideas. This activity requires recyclable materials.
Pollinator Bath
Farming, Nature, and Insects
In this activity, learners will build a design and build a place for pollinators to drink from. Learners will create a place to attract and observe pollinators and learn how to best support pollinators. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and is available in English and Spanish. This activity uses low cost materials and can be done at home.
Straw Rockets
Arts and Crafts
In this activity, learners will create unique rockets. Each rocket will be powered by air as the child will blow into a straw and watch their rocket fly. Learners are encouraged to change their rocket design and the type of straw to find the best flying rocket. Activity includes step-by-step instructions with visual aids. This activity uses low-cost materials and can be done at home.
Rip It Up And Start Again - Composting
Agriculture and Gardening
In this activity, learners will experiment to find how long it takes to compost paper. This experiment will take a couple of weeks to conduct. Although the experiment may take a long, the price to do the experiment is free. After the experiment is finished, learning will understand how long it takes for something to decompose in nature.
Thirsty Candle
Discrepant Event, Experiment
In this activity, learners will explore the dynamics of air pressure by using a candle, a cup, and a dish of water. Learners will observe how the candle flame effects air temperature and how that interaction can be seen through a change in water level. Activity includes step-by-step instructions in English and in Spanish. This activity also makes use of common household items
Pollinator Bingo
Bingo, I-Spy, Games
In this activity, learners will use their five senses to explore a nature-based area around them. While walking through a nature area, the child will use their senses to find different things to fill out their bingo card. This activity allows children to explore their natural surroundings. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and is available in Spanish and English translation.
Water Engineering
Model Building
In this activity, learners will engineer a water irrigation system. Create an acequia to move water with the help of gravity. Activity includes step-by-step instructions, "what's the science" section that explains the science behind the activity, and extension ideas.
Soil Density
Earth Science, Ecology
In this activity learners will test soil content using their sample, some water and a container that seals. Learners will observe soil suspension and layering of various proportions of sand, clay and silt along with organic materials. Activity has step-by-step instructions in English and Spanish. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Helicopters
Aerodynamics
In this activity learners will observe how air interacts with a paper helicopter. Activity has step-by-step instructions in English and Navajo. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Flower Power
Gardening: Nature and Environment
In this activity, learners will experiment with changing flower colors. Investigate the effects of acids and bases on flower colors. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and extension ideas. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Parachutes
Outdoor Activity
In this activity, learners will investigate air and gravity through the use of various fabrics by through them in the air. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and extension ideas.
Pendulum Fun
Motion
In this activity learners will explore pendulum motion. Through a science experiment with step-by-step instructions. There are extension ideas for students to further activity.
Static Electricity
Attraction
In this activity learners will explore ways static electricity interacts with the surroundings of an object. The activity has step-by-step instructions in English and Navajo. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Honeycomb Geometry
Nature and Environment, Model Building
In this activity, learners will build a honeycomb. Investigate how the shape of the honeycomb develops. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and extension ideas. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Star Stories
Stars and Planets
In this activity, learners will explore the stars that are visible from earth. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and extension ideas. All materials are easy to find within the home or is cost effective.
Floating and Sinking Fruits and Veggies
Fruits and Veggies
In this activity learners will explore the density of an object in water. This activity has a step by step instructions in English and Navajo. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Squishy Soil
Nature and Environment: Outdoor activity
In this activity, learners will investigate the part of soil. Explore how clay, silt, and sand make up the dirt in your background. Activity includes step-by-step instructions and extension ideas. This activity uses easy to find materials.
Ice Melt
Thermal Energy
In this activity learners will explore intro information of thermal dynamics by experimenting with ice. Activity includes step-by-step instructions. Activity provides information what is happening to the ice.
