Circuits

Goals / Outcomes

Students will create one circuit project using at least 4 blocks of different types. Students will observe their project and reflect on the flow of electrical power and/or the conversion to mechanical power. Students will write observations in their science notebooks.

Student Activity

As a whole class, students will review the different block types that are in the Snap Circuits Jr. Kit. They will discuss the function of each piece and what it does, such as the switches connecting and disconnecting the wires in the circuit. Class will look at 2 examples of circuit layouts to observe the functions of the blocks used.

Students will break into determined small groups of 2-3 kids with the goal of using the kit to create 2 circuit layouts. They are given build time with the choice of 5 layouts to choose from (example Project 17 pictured above). They will work together to construct the projects, making sure to troubleshoot if the end product does not produce the light or sound that it should. Students will capture their first product using their iPad cameras, and then disassemble it and do the same for the second chosen project. Students will write in their observations of the project in their science notebook with details about the circuits they created. They will note the flow of the electrical power and the role each component the circuit. The list of circuit part descriptions will be a resource that students are encouraged to utilize for their notebook entries.

Instructions

• Get Snap Circuit Kit, list of circuit part descriptions, and move to partner groups.
• Choose 2 circuit layouts to build.
• Use circuit blocks to work with your partner(s) to build the circuit.
• If necessary, troubleshoot whether the circuit is closed if components do not work.
• Take picture or video of finished circuit. Share to teacher's Google account.
• Write observations and detailed descriptions of the circuits created. Make note of the flow of power and the role each component the circuit.

Rubric