Simple Circuits - Makerspace

Essential Question
How can I apply my knowledge of simple circuits to design/build an object that will improve my daily life? 

• I can describe how simple circuits work. 
• I can modify and re-engineer my idea throughout the design process. 
• I can use multiple resources to research and answer my questions. 
• I can create a multimedia presentation to share my research and design with others

Standards

• GLE 0607.12.1 – Describe how simple circuits are associated with the transfer of electrical energy.
• GLE 0607.T/E.2 – Know that the engineering design process involves an ongoing series of events that incorporate design constraints, model building, testing, evaluating, modifying, and retesting.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.7 - Conduct short research projects to answer a question, drawing on several sources and refocusing the inquiry when appropriate.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.6.5 - Include multimedia components (e.g., graphics, images, music, sound) and visual displays in presentations to clarify information.

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Project Guide 

You can download the written guide here. 

Step 1: Introduction

Step 2: Research -- How do circuits work? 

Don't forget to take notes! (And cite your sources!)

Sample Articles: 
How do electric circuits work? 
Electricity 

Step 3: Application -- How can I use this information? 

See what others have done: 

Sample Projects from LittleBits

Sample Projects

Get to know your tools

Brainstorm! Sketch and write your ideas on paper. Bounce ideas off of each other. What can you build that would be useful in your life? 

Step 4: Building

Begin building your prototype. Make mistakes. Take it apart. Re-imagine your design. Build it again. 

Keep in Mind:

The Color Code
Modules are grouped into 4 different categories, which are color coded:

POWER is needed in every circuit and is the start of all your creations.
INPUT modules accept input from you and the environment and send signals to the modules that follow.
OUTPUT modules DO something–light, buzz, move…
WIRES modules expand your reach and change direction–great for helping to incorporate modules into your projects.

Order is Important
Power modules always come first and input modules only affect the output modules that come after them.

Step 5: Share/Document
Take pictures or make a video of your product. Make a multimedia project (iMovie, Prezi, PowerPoint, etc.) to provide an explanation for other students about how/why it works and walk them through the design process. Make it fun! Make it interesting! We will share below! ⬇⬇⬇⬇