Making Circuits

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In this activity, learners explore electricity and conductivity to find that many things conduct electricity including copper, pencil lead, fruit, play-doh, and even people! Learners set up a circuit with a programmed PICO Cricket, a numeric (Hex) display, and an alligator-clip sensor. Learners test and compare the electrical conductivity of various objects and people. Learners can also program music so that connection value of the circuit changes the notes.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • PICO Cricket
  • Numeric (Hex) display
  • Alligator-clip sensor
  • Play-doh
  • People

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Computing
    • Engineering
      • Electrical Engineering
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Physical Sciences
    • Electricity and Magnetism
      • Electric Charges and Currents
      • Electric Circuits
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Sound
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Electronics
  • Music

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • hear
  • use mouse
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, 0087813