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Merge Cube is a hands-on augmented reality tool that lets students hold and interact with 3D digital objects. Using the cube with Merge EDU apps, students can explore things like the solar system, fossils, the human body, cells, weather, landforms, and other science concepts in a way that feels visual, interactive, and memorable. Merge EDU also includes standards-aligned activity plans, student-friendly tools, and options for creating or viewing 3D objects.
Best for
Best for
Grades: 2-8
Subjects: Science
STEM
Earth Science
Life Science
Space Science
Reading
Math
Geography
Technology
Makerspace
What This Tool Helps You Do
What This Tool Helps You Do
Make abstract concepts easier to see and understand
Let students explore 3D models in a hands-on way
Increase engagement during science and STEM lessons
Support vocabulary development through visual learning
Build background knowledge before reading informational text
Help students observe, describe, compare, and explain
Strengthen discussion and collaboration in pairs or small groups
Bring AR and interactive technology into the classroom without a complicated setup
How to Use This Tool
How to Use This Tool
Step 1: Get the materials ready
Step 1: Get the materials ready
Have a Merge Cube and a compatible device ready. Merge EDU works with supported mobile devices and other compatible platforms, and it can be used in small groups, pairs, 1:1, or projected for whole-group instruction.
Step 2: Set up your Merge EDU account
Step 2: Set up your Merge EDU account
Create an account or start a trial through Merge EDU. Teachers can access the dashboard, apps, help guides, and lesson materials there.
Step 3: Activate or prepare your cube
Step 3: Activate or prepare your cube
If you purchased a cube, use the included cube code if needed. If you do not have a foam cube, Merge also provides a paper cube option that can be printed, folded, and used with the apps.
Step 4: Open a Merge EDU app
Step 4: Open a Merge EDU app
Students can use apps like Merge Explorer, Object Viewer, or HoloGlobe depending on the activity. Explorer is especially useful for science and STEM concepts.
Step 5: Choose a topic or simulation
Step 5: Choose a topic or simulation
Pick a concept connected to your lesson, such as cells, planets, fossils, weather, or landforms. Use the built-in content and activity plans to guide instruction.
Step 6: Let students observe and interact
Step 6: Let students observe and interact
Have students rotate the cube, zoom in, describe what they notice, answer questions, and discuss what they are learning. This works especially well in partners or stations.
Step 7: Extend the learning
Step 7: Extend the learning
Follow up with writing, drawing, labeling, discussion, vocabulary practice, quizzes, or a related hands-on STEM task.
Classroom Ideas
Classroom Ideas
Explore the parts of a plant or animal cell
Study the solar system and compare planets
Examine fossils, rocks, and landforms
Investigate the human body or organ systems
Use it during a weather or Earth science unit
Add it to a STEM station for partner exploration
Use it before reading nonfiction to build background knowledge
Project it on a screen for a whole-class lesson when you only have one cube/device, which Merge specifically supports for shared instruction.
Reading
Reading
Build vocabulary before reading a nonfiction passage
Have students describe a 3D object using complete sentences
Practice compare and contrast using two science concepts
Write observations using academic language
Create a short explanatory paragraph after exploring an object
Use sentence stems such as:
“I notice…”
“This object shows…”
“I learned that…”
“This is similar to…”
Pair Merge Cube exploration with informational text and text evidence
Math
Math
Explore 3D shapes and geometry vocabulary
Discuss symmetry, angles, edges, faces, and vertices
Use spatial reasoning language like rotate, turn, above, below, beside, and across
Estimate size relationships between planets or objects
Compare measurements, scale, or distance in space-themed lessons
Use graphing or data discussion after observing weather or science models
Science
Science
Investigate scientific models and explain systems
Ask students to make predictions before exploring
Use it as part of the engineering design process
Have students observe a model, identify a problem, and design a solution
Pair virtual exploration with a hands-on build challenge
Use Merge Cube in science centers, makerspaces, or lab rotations
Let students view or create digital 3D objects using the Merge ecosystem’s content and object tools.
Materials Needed
Materials Needed
Merge Cube
Tablet, phone, or other compatible device
Merge EDU app or platform access
Internet access for setup and some resources
Headphones if students are working independently
Optional:
Printed recording sheet
Science journal
Pencil or markers
Projector or smartboard for whole-group use
Paper Merge Cube if you do not have a foam cube.
Helpful Tips
Helpful Tips
Practice with the app before introducing it to students
Start with one simple object before using more advanced content
Teach students how to hold and turn the cube slowly
Use partners so students can talk through what they notice
Build in a recording task so exploration has a clear purpose
Use it as a supplement to instruction, not just a fun extra
If you only have one device, project it and guide a class discussion
Check your lighting and camera view if the object is not showing clearly
Use Merge’s activity plans to save planning time
Use Immersive Reader features when needed to support accessibility and comprehension.
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