Idea Factory
Challenge Labs
The Challenge Lab is a self-directed experience where participants team up and use a finite number of given resources to tackle "challenges." These activities are designed to foster twenty-first century skills like team work and collaboration, innovation, creativity, and problem solving.
Wonderplace – Builders and Inventors
Climb aboard the Wonderplace train car for a journey into science exploration and discovery. Wonderplace features fun hands-on science activities and creative make-and-take projects. Teachers receive a post-visit packet containing lesson ideas and reading suggestions.
Simple Machines
Can you name the six types of simple machines? Explore how simple machines require less force to move an object. Identify everyday objects as a simple machine in a matching activity. Using simple machines, design a puff-mobile!
Simple Circuits
What are the three main parts to a simple electrical circuit? Find out as you create your own simple circuit! Which materials can be effectively used as conductors? Get energized by experimenting with conductors, insulators, wires, batteries and more as you watch electricity in action!
The Scientific Method
How do we discover science? Learn how scientists make inferences and conclusions based on their observations. Identify objects inside of a box without looking at them by using logic and reasoning. Will an unopened can of soda float in water? Formulate a hypothesis, ascertain variables, and set up a control as you help conduct a series of trials. Make observations, ask questions, and start using the scientific method to discover the world around you.
SMVOpeningDay
Time lapse video of the Summer Fin sand sculpture being created from start to finish.
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Science Museum of Virginia Giant Sunflower Time Lapse
Museum guests and staff at the Science Museum of Virginia turned the museums rotunda into a work of art creating a giant, Van Gogh-inspired sunflower with hundreds of live flowers. It was in celebration of the film Van Gogh: Brush With Genius opening in the museums IMAX®DOME. Flowers were generously loaned by Stranges Florists, Greenhouses and Garden Centers.
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