KS3 Materials
Nutty Putty film
Watch this demonstration about the properties of smart materials called non-Newtonian fluids.
Happy Nappy film
Watch this demonstration about the properties of superabsorbers, the material found in disposable nappies.
Newtons Nemesis film
Watch this demonstration about the properties of polymers, in particular oobleck, a mixture of cornflour and water.
Total Recall film
Watch this demonstration showing the properties of smart materials known as shape-memory metals or alloys.
Soda Snake Fireworks
In this activity a chemical reaction produces a gas which charms a snake from a mound of sand.
Burning money
In this activity you can set fire to a £5 note without damaging it, all thanks to the properties of liquids.
Shape-shifting slime
In this activity you can explore the properties of everyday materials and how they can change shape.
Launchball educators’ guide
Launchball is a fantastically fun educational game that brings the principles and phenomena of the Launchpad gallery online and into your classroom.
Spaghetti Challenge
In this race against the clock students work as a team to build the highest tower possible out of dried spaghetti and marshmallows.