Lesson Plans

THE CHALLENGE: Electricity and Circuits

Content: Electricity, Circuits
Theme: Fun & Games

Engineers figure out ways to apply science concepts, such as electricity, to make things people want and need.

In this hands–on challenge, students use circuits to invent a toy, game or foot-operated dance pad, similar to Dance Dance Revolution®. In the process, they learn about electric switches and use the design process to develop a pad that responds to their dance moves.

First students watch the Hidden Alarm challenge video to get a quick refresher on circuits. Then, they work in teams to design and build their version of any of the following activities (40 min). Or, you can choose from these additional activities.

IN CLASS

After getting a quick refresher on circuits as they watch the Hidden Alarm challenge video, students will work in collaborative teams to design their own "dance pad."

  • Hidden Alarm

    First, students will watch the Hidden Alarm video. (2:20)

    Watch

  • Brainstorm and Build

    Then, students will work in teams of three or four to brainstorm, design, build, and test their version of any of the following activities (40 min). Or, choose from these additional activities.

  • Dance Pad Mania

    Build a dance pad that sounds buzzers and flashes lights.

    Read more
    Download PDFs: Student Handout (English | Spanish), Leader Notes (English)

  • Hidden Alarm

    Build a circuit to power an alarm so small that you can hide it.

    Read more | Watch a Demo
    Download PDFs: Student Handout (English | Spanish), Leader Notes (English)

  • Glow Stick

    Make a string of glowing lights that you can dance with, read by, or wear.

    Read more and watch a Demo

AT HOME

During this "At Home" challenge, students will interview or observe the clients — friends or family — to determine how the features of their design could be improved.

  • Test the Design

    First, students will test their design with friends or family members. They will conduct interviews and make observations to find out what changes would improve their design. Optionally, they may take photos or record video of their testing process. Finally, they will bring this testing report to discuss in class the next day.

  • Fidgit Factory Game

    Optionally, students may play DESIGN SQUAD's "Fidgit Factory" game, which provides a playful introduction to electrical circuits. First, players build their "Fidgit Factory" by making a circuit to power a variety of machines that control Fidgit character's attributes, such as color, antennae, and accessories. When the orders start rolling in, the player will have to act fast, getting those Fidgits customized before the battery power runs out. Each level requires the player to add on to their circuit with more machines, more batteries, and then use them to make more Fidgits.

CLASSROOM WRAP-UP

After sharing results from their "At Home" interviews, students will design and sketch elements that improve their project. Then, students will see how the DESIGN SQUAD tackled a similar challenge in the "Bodies Electric" episode.

  • Share

    First, share and discuss the results of the "At Home" testing that students conducted. (10-15 min)

    Then, the class will conduct a peer review of each of the projects, demonstrating them and discussing strengths and areas for improvement. Optionally: take photos of student projects, and share them in the DESIGN SQUAD website project gallery.

  • Bodies Electric (DESIGN SQUAD Season 1, Episode 112)

    Finally they will watch episode #112 "Bodies Electric" in which the DESIGN SQUAD contestants tackle a challenge similar to Dance Pad. In this episode, the teams try to create a movement-activated sound and light show for the moves and grooves of hip-hop artist, Wyatt Jackson. (27:30)

    Watch