Star Wars Maker Lab: 20 Craft and Science Projects

Gr 4–7-Twenty science crafts will keep "Star Wars" enthusiasts entertained for hours. Quotes from the films and background images of "Star Wars" characters help link the theme to each activity. Most items needed can be found in the home (cardboard, tubes, tape, glue) with a few big items from the store (paints, a vibrating motor, polymer clay, and strong magnets). Each activity is ranked on a difficulty scale: easier tasks include making galactic planets by coloring hard boiled eggs using whipped cream and food coloring; the medium difficulty section includes "Jabba Slime," and an Ewok catapult; harder activities require more steps and some creative designing. Simply worded step-by-step instructions and clear photos that demonstrate the process help readers complete the tasks. "How It Works" segments provide the information on the science at work. There are recommended templates in the back of the book, which may not be ideal for circulation. When cutting, gluing, mixing, or heating is involved, the authors recommend kids to get adult help. Many of the projects require patience planning, building, and testing; younger or inexperienced crafters will need a lot of assistance.