Is global warming all smoke and mirrors? Find out what your scholars think with this handout, which has them analyzing two political cartoons on the topic. Background information gives context, detailing the computer hacking during the...

Political cartoons are a poignant way to examine energy sources. This analysis handout has scholars examining a cartoon by Joe Heller (a link to his gallery is included for possible extensions). Background information reminds pupils of...

Students dissect simple machines. In this simple machines lesson, students gather simple machines from their home to dissect in class. Students investigate the working parts of simple machines and construct a machine based on the designs...

Students take a closer look at the Gulf oil spill of 2010. In this global issues instructional activity, students analyze political cartoons related to the crisis. Students discuss their impressions of the crisis and U.S. energy policies.

In this motion worksheet, students write 2 or 3 techniques for showing motion in cartoons. Students also draw 3 cartoon panels of 2 automobiles on a highway, one moving at a constant speed and the other one accelerating.

Students design and construct a Rube Goldberg machine that accomplishes a simple task in at least ten steps. They view and discuss various Rube Goldberg designs, identify types of simple machines, and in small groups produce a schematic...

Students learn about Rube Goldberg machines (complicated devices designed to accomplish simple tasks and then design and build a machine that uses more than six separate steps to move an empty aluminum can. They can either work...

In this current events worksheet, students analyze political cartoons that feature space science. Students respond to 3 talking point questions.

Students examine the legal side of the teaching of evolution. They study the Scopes Trial and reflect on what it means for a teacher to be denied the right to teach a key scientific concept. In addition, they design their own editorial...

Students study Rube Goldberg machines.  For this investigative lesson students design and build a machine that uses several steps to move an aluminum can. 

Students are introduced to global warming through analysis of political/editorial cartoons dealing with the subject. They discuss the cartoon and what the feel it means and then discuss the mechanics of and the concerns about global...

This amazing website provides access to 200 exciting experiments from cartoonist, broadcaster, and engineer, Tim Hunkin. Each experiment is categorized and illustrated.

Multi-media lesson plan includes a video, PowerPoint, and handouts from which students explore the issues raised by the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil disaster and interpret political cartoons and the cartoonist's message.

This article from Massachusetts Institute of Technology describes Rube Goldberg's work as a cartoonist.

Browse this index to find fun, hand-drawn cartoons that simplify and explain many science topics, including atmosphere, evolution, fusion, static electricity, and time. Cartoons are created by engineer-turned-cartoonist, Tim Hunkin,...