Design and build a kite that can fly.
Science Action Club recognizes the unique challenges facing out-of-school time programs. Shifts to online learning and physical distancing require new ways of thinking. But you don't need to reinvent the wheel. Use this searchable index to find recommended SAC activities for different learning environments and feel free to modify activities to meet your program's needs. If you’d like help brainstorming ideas, contact SAC at scienceactionclub@calacademy.org.
Tips to Support Your Planning:
- Consider each activity’s mission and keep sight of the main learning goals as you make changes.
- Citizen science can be done anywhere—indoors, outdoors, even through your window.
- Some group activities can be done individually.
- Links to the digital guidebooks and printed materials are located inside each online training under Activity Leader Resources. You can screen-share images of SAC printed materials or videos if you’re teaching online. A list of video links is located near the back of each guidebook.
Looking for coronavirus (COVID-19) info? Click here for resources, FAQs, and interviews with Shannon Bennett, PhD, the Academy's Chief of Science.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Household Materials, Printed Materials
Type: Design Challenge
Measure and record temperature, moisture, and pH levels in a nearby habitat.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Household Materials, SAC Kit Materials
Type: Art / Science Activity, Data Analysis, Science Investigation
Make and toss seed balls to help grow wild sunflowers for birds.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: SAC Kit Materials
Type: Science Investigation, Art / Science Activity
Use the GLOBE app to record sky observations and share them with NASA.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Printed Materials, Internet / Computer
Type: Citizen Science, Science Investigation
Draw a section of an arthropod image and match it with your team's pieces.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Printed Materials, Internet / Computer
Type: Art / Science Activity, Game
Brainstorm challenges facing birds, then design and prototype a solution.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Household Materials
Type: Design Challenge
Notice different bird sizes and contribute to citizen science using eBird.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Internet / Computer
Type: Citizen Science, Science Investigation
Find, collect, and photograph bugs. Share your observations to iNaturalist.
Recommended for: Online Learning
Requires: SAC Kit Materials, Internet / Computer
Type: Citizen Science, Science Investigation, Art / Science Activity
Help track and protect threatened condors.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Internet / Computer
Type: Video, Call to Action, Citizen Science
Compare the biodiversity of your club site versus your whole neighborhood.
Recommended for: Online Learning, Physical Distancing
Requires: Household Materials
Type: Call to Action, Skill Practice
Pages
Have questions?
Let us know how we can help.
SAC Educator Portal
Are you a SAC trainer or activity leader? Log in to your account for access to online trainings, bonus resources, and more.
Extended Learning Backpack
Find extension activities for your club.