Idea Sheets
RAFT Idea Sheets are easy-to-use hands-on experience guides linked to core curriculum topics. Every Idea Sheet is cross-referenced to one or more of the curriculum subjects listed in the California Content Standards. Use this Idea Sheets Search Tool to rapidly pinpoint activities that are perfectly suited to the grade level, subject area, and content standard you want to cover.
Idea Sheets are based on readily-available, low-cost materials such as cardboard tubes, bottle caps, old CD's, etc. Over 650 Idea Sheets are available at no cost on www.raft.net.
You can also Search Idea Sheets by California Standards or Keywords.
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Bulls-eye
Simple marble games can be a great introduction to the study of motion ... or just a great way to spend an afternoon!
Subjects: Physical Science -
Bumpy Balls
Balls are popular playthings for people of all ages. They help develop hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills, and they appeal to tactile learners. In this activity for students of all ages, foam balls are made that can be safely used in the classroom for a variety of learning activities. Bumpy Balls are easy to create, fun to make, and even more fun to play with!
Subjects: Physical Science -
Butterfly Bush
In this easy art project, students can design and make their own butterfly bushes.
Subjects: Art -
Buzz Off
Give this little noisemaker a whirl to learn about the effects of air passing over a taut rubber band. As it vibrates, the rubber band can generate a surprising range of deep rumbling tones. How can the pitch be changed? Experiment to find the answer!
Subjects: Physical ScienceKits Available: San Jose 26, Redwood City 17
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Cabbage Patch Indicator
Red cabbage juice is amazing! Acids and bases make it change color!
Subjects: Physical Science, Life Science -
Cafe Wall Illusion
Illusions are wonderful student motivators! When people realize that sometimes they cannot believe their eyes, they often want to know why. It took scientists months of research and many experiments to figure out why this simple pattern of black and white tiles outside a cafe in Bristol looked like a bunch of wedges.
Subjects: Physical Science, Life Science -
Calculating Bones
When John Napier, a famous mathematician, invented his "Bones" or "Rods" in the early 17th century, modern calculating was born. With this simplified recreation, students can multiply large numbers quickly, with little effort and no electricity!
Subjects: Math, Social Studies -
California Geographic Assembly
Use transparent layers to diagram and represent different map details of California.
Subjects: Earth/Space Science, Social Studies -
Camp or Bust
A journal for day or overnight camp
Subjects: Language Arts, Art -
Candles from Palm Wax
While normally only used to create molded candles, palm wax granules can be easily melted in hot water and used to make small dipped candles in a few minutes.
Subjects: Physical Science, Social Studies
