We are now scheduling field trips for K-12 students and homeschoolers.

 Students will learn that it takes energy to change the motion of objects. Forces applied to objects can be increased through the use of simple machines. Students will experiment with simple machines and exert forces on objects to change their motion in this hands-on lab.  

Students use cars and ramps to demonstrate an object in motion always changes its position and may change direction. Students record data about the speed of objects. Students will observe the faster an object moves, the more energy it has. This activity is recommended for younger students (NGSS 4-PS3-A). 

 Students construct an electrical circuit using a series connection and a switch to power a light emitting diode. This is one example of how electricity provides energy for everyday activities. Discover how other forms of energy power automobiles. Observe that energy can be transferred by electric currents (NGSS 4-PS3-2). 

 Students use solar energy to provide power for several activities including race cars, fans, time-keeping devices  and more.  Learn about how other forms of energy power automobiles. Discuss how solar energy could be used to provide power for everyday activities. Understand that light transfers energy (NGSS 4-PS3-2; 4-PS3-4). 

Students experiment with magnets and build an electromagnet. Maglev technology is explored in the context of methods of propulsion (specifically steam, gas electromagnetic trains).  Investigate and describe that magnets can attract magnetic materials and attract and repel other magnets.SC.4.P.8.4; NGSS 5-PS1-4)

 Ride the rails through time along the same route Florida pioneers used to import and export citrus, timber and fertilizer. Participate in the shipping of goods. Discover how the Orange Belt Railway and its developer, Peter Demens, brought economic development to towns along West Central Florida. 

 Expand your understanding of the Orange Belt Railway with an exploration of steam in transportation at the turn of the century. Learn about how steam powered trains, automobiles and industrial engines over a hundred years ago through live steam demonstrations. 

 Build your own model car on an assembly line. Learn how Henry Ford's production model changed the face of industry and propelled our country away from farms and toward major economic growth. Explore a collection of turn of the century vehicles and pile into a Model-T Ford with your friends for a blast from the past photo op. This field trip includes a take-home project and additional fee of $5.

 Discover how stationary engines powered our country on the field and in the factory. Take part in a live demonstration of steam and gas engines generating power through belts and line shafts. Be awed by the power of a Corliss engine with a 12 foot flywheel turning. See how steam has evolved over two hundred years and imagine how sources of energy will power our country in the future.