text-only page produced automatically by LIFT Text
Transcoder Skip all navigation and go to page contentSkip top navigation and go to directorate navigationSkip top navigation and go to page navigation
National Science Foundation
Now Showing: Film, TV, Museums & More
Promoting Public Understanding of Science & Engineering
NSF supports a wide variety of educational and informational projects for the general public
IMAX films and other film projects for diverse audiences
Permanent, regional and traveling exhibits and associated outreach programs
Innovative programs for children and adults, and science information material for broadcasters
Radio shows, Web-based resources, community programs, life-long learning opportunities
Overview of NSF's Informal Science Education program


More
Hands-On Optics -– Making an Impact with Light

Hands-On Optics -– Making an Impact with Light logo

This unique informal science program, funded by the National Science Foundation, pairs optics professionals with science teachers to introduce underserved middle school students to the exciting world of optics. Optics is all about what light is made of and how it behaves. Optics can be found in many everyday situations, from eyeglasses to CD's to hospitals to outer space.

The hands-on, high-interest, standards-connected activities and materials developed by "Hands-On Optics" (HOO) provide six fun and engaging optics activity modules. Educators, parents, science center staff and optics professionals work with HOO activities via informal education programs that range from Saturday morning programs to after-school activities and science center events. HOO serves a dual role: it introduces teachers and students to basic optics concepts. While introducing them to professionals who make a living through optics.

Visit the "Hands-On Optics" Web site: http://www.hands-on-optics.org/