What makes a Bic click? Why do squirt guns squirt? And how do pop-up thermometers know it's time to pop? Using this compilation of "Everyday Engineering" columns from NSTA's award-winning journal Science Scope, engage middle-schoolers in hands-on investigations of the science and engineering behind objects they probably take for granted. The collection consists of 14 activities. Each includes a clear explanation of the science and history behind an item's development plus a materials list, student data sheets, and safety suggestions. The collection is intended to be useful to classroom teachers as well as scout leaders, engineers leading outreach activities, after-school and summer enrichment program staff s, and parents. In addition to exposing young people to the marvels of design behind seemingly simple objects, Everyday Engineering may just spark a lifelong interest in engineering.
