Demonstrations Used in the Show

    
Demonstration #1: Getting into Orbit

3-4 balls – All of the balls should be the same size, texture and weight to ensure a controlled demonstration. The color of the balls will not affect the results. One ball could be used for all of the launches if you only have one available.
1 Table – The taller the better. The students will be able to view the projectile motion easier if the fall time is a longer period of time.
4 Students – The students are the best markers for the landing points because they get involved in the demonstration.
1 Tape-measure – This would be a great time to incorporate measurement even though there was not enough time to measure the distances on the show. Measure the distance using the English and Metric systems. Comparisons are great.
 

Demonstration #2: Weightlessness Using Rubber Bands

1 - plastic cup
2 - rubber bands
1 - large paperclip
2 - (5/8 inch) nuts
Click here for pictures of the setup.
Video Camera – It would be great if you could videotape the dropping cups. Then the students could watch themselves in slow motion using a VCR and television.
(The amount of materials listed is enough for one demonstration)
 

Demonstration #3: Weightlessness Using Water

9 Styrofoam cups – Each demonstrator should drop 2 separate cups. The first one usually isn’t as good as the second. The cups will break after each use. Click here for pictures of the setup.
Chair, small stool or safe playground equipment – The taller the better, but always remember the safety of the students.
Water – You will need 1-2 pitchers of water. The cups should be filled to the top.
Tub or small pool – This activity will make a mess. It may be best to complete the activity outside. Then a tub would not be needed.
Video Camera – It would be great if you could videotape the dropping cups. Then the students could watch themselves in show motion using a VCR and television.
(The amount of materials will vary depending on the number of students you want to complete the demonstration. The list above includes enough materials for 3 demonstrators. )

Demonstration #4: Build Your Own Spacesuit

3 pieces of paper towel – 2 sheets per length
3 pieces of aluminum foil – Enough to go around the arm of the demonstrator
Tubing – (1.5 – 2 feet) of ½ inch clear tubing (purchase at a hardware or building store)
Plastic food wrap – 1 box
Duct tape – 1 roll
(The amount of materials listed is enough for one demonstration.)

Demonstration #5: Working In Space

3 – (1/2 inch x 2.5 inch) bolts
3 – (5/8 inch x 2.5 inch) bolts
3 – (1/2 inch) washers
3 – (5/8 inch) washers
3 – (1/2 inch) nuts
3 – (5/8 inch) nuts
3 pairs of gloves / mittens – The bulkier the glove the harder it will be.
Stop watch – Kids love to use a stopwatch. This demonstration could lead into a fraction of time lesson.

(The amount of materials listed is enough for three demonstrators. You can change the size of the bolts and corresponding nuts to make it harder or easier for the students. Larger bolts and nuts will make the task easier for the students. )

Questions, comments or ideas for Kids Quest can be e-mailed to Edservices@sdpb.org