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Build Your Own Coding Device

The headshot image of Catherine G. Manning

Catherine G. Manning

Apr 25, 2023
Article

Contents

Solar Eclipse Special Edition

Build Your Own Solar Eclipse Coding Device

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible from the United States, Mexico, and Canada. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. As a result, the sky will darken during the day, as if it was night. Print out SCaN’s “Build Your Own Solar Eclipse Coding Device” activity and decode four secret messages to celebrate the total solar eclipse!

Kindergarten – Grade 3

Build Your Own Coding Antenna (K-3)

The Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program uses ground station antennas on Earth and satellites in space to help guide and exchange important information for all of NASA’s spaceflight missions. Data is encoded onto radio waves, which are then sent across the galaxy and decoded after reaching their final destination. Practice your engineering skills by decorating and assembling your own ground station antenna, then use it as a wheel cipher to help NASA decode three secret messages.

Ciphers have been used for thousands of years to help keep information hidden. After cracking NASA’s code, use your antenna cipher to create your own secret messages for your friends and family!
Front page of the Build Your Own Coding Activity for grades kindergarten through third. On the the top half of the page is block of text with directions for how to complete the activity. The bottom half of the page is part of the activity.
Second page of the Build Your Own Coding Activity for grades kindergarten through third. From top left to right, rotating clockwise, is a triangle, small circle, larger circle, and an image of how to assemble the pieces.

Grades 4-6

Build Your Own Coding Antenna (4-6)
Front page of the Build Your Own Coding Activity for grades four through six. On the the top half of the page is block of text with directions for how to complete the activity. The bottom half of the page is part of the activity.
Second page of the Build Your Own Coding Activity for grades four through six. From top left to right, rotating clockwise, is a triangle, small circle, larger circle, and an image of how to assemble the pieces.