STEM Activities

Check out these STEM activities that can be done before or after your program!

Cloud in a Bottle

Grades 3-6

Students will create the conditions required to form a cloud.

The Goddard Rocket

Grades 3-6

This activity allows students to build an inexpensive, safe, flying model of a rocket.

More than a Dirty Snowball

Grades 5-8

Students will create a model of a comet, analyze a model to learn more about comets, and review facts to determine how scientists discovered this information.

Thermal Protection System (ES)

Grades 3-5

Engineers in training will learn how heat transfers through conduction, convection and radiation by designing and building a thermal protection system for a space craft. Engineers will work within design and budget parameters for their heat shield to protect their “sensors” or the chocolate from melting.

Thermal Protection System (MS)

Grades 5-8

Engineers in training will learn how heat transfers through conduction, convection and radiation by designing and building a thermal protection system to protect a space craft. Engineers will work within design and budget parameters for their heat shield to protect their “Astronaut” or the glue from melting.

Thermal Protection System (HS)

Grades 8-12

Engineers in training will learn how heat transfers through conduction, convection and radiation by designing and building heat tiles and ablative systems for a space craft. Engineers will work within design and budget parameters for their ablative heat shield to protect their “Eggstronaut”.

Tower of Power

Grades 3+

Students will use the engineering design process to engineer a tower made of index cards to hold an object.

Universe Slime

Grades K-5

Students will learn facts about our expanding universe while engaging in a hands-on activity.

Civil Air Patrol Lessons to Support The U.S. Space Force

Civil Air Patrol, the Auxiliary of the United States Air Force, provides a multitude of free aviation, space, and cyber products and programs for K-12 educators.

Dept. of the Air Force STEM Activites

Looking for addition activities from Dept of Air Force K-12 STEM? Check out our website: