How do you light a fire under a class of 36 thirteen and fourteen-year olds and convince them that they want to learn about physics, chemistry, and math so badly that they are willing to give up recess and lunch to learn more? For the author’s students, the answer has been the use of computers, probeware, and computer-based data acquisition. Here are some examples that illustrate the creativity and ingenuity of middle grade students who are empowered to do science that is meaningful to them.