High School Grade  Project 4 weeks

Zap & Play: Circuit Craze Challenge

Bryce H
Updated
PSc.6.1
PSc.6.2
PSc.6.3
PSc.6.4
PSc.6.5
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage high school students in a hands-on, real-world learning experience where they apply principles of electricity and magnetism to design and build a functional game. Through this process, students will deepen their understanding of how various factors affect circuit performance and safety. By collaborating with community partners and showcasing their work at a 'Circuit Carnival,' students will gain valuable insights into the practical applications of their learning while enhancing their communication and problem-solving skills.

Learning goals

Students will explore and apply principles of electricity and magnetism by designing and building a functional game, enhancing their understanding of circuit components and their interactions. They will investigate how variations in wire composition, length, temperature, and diameter affect circuit performance and safety, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through collaboration with community partners, students will gain insights into real-world applications of electromagnetism and circuit design, preparing them for future STEM opportunities.

Standards
  • PSc.6.3 - Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain how current is affected by changes in composition, length, temperature, and diameter of wire.
  • PSc.6.4 - Use models to explain magnetism in terms of domains, interactions of poles, and magnetic fields.
  • PSc.6.5 - Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain the application of electromagnets.
  • PSc.6.1 - Carry out investigations to explain static and current electricity.
  • PSc.6.2 - Construct an explanation to compare simple series and parallel circuits in terms of Ohm's Law.
  • PSc.6.3 - Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain how current is affected by changes in composition, length, temperature, and diameter of wire.
  • PSc.6.4 - Use models to explain magnetism in terms of domains, interactions of poles, and magnetic fields.
  • PSc.6.5 - Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to explain the application of electromagnets.
  • PSc.6.1 - Carry out investigations to explain static and current electricity.
  • PSc.6.2 - Construct an explanation to compare simple series and parallel circuits in terms of Ohm's Law.

Products

Throughout the project, students will create prototypes and final versions of their redesigned "Operation" games, incorporating principles of electricity and magnetism. They will also develop detailed circuit diagrams and safety guidelines for their games, showcasing their understanding of wire composition, length, temperature, and diameter effects on circuit performance. By the end of the project, students will have a fully functional game, supported by documentation that explains their design choices and the scientific principles applied. Additionally, they will produce presentation materials for the Circuit Carnival exhibition, including interactive demonstrations and informational displays.

Launch

Kick off the project with an electrifying 'Shock and Awe' demonstration led by a local engineer who showcases dramatic experiments involving static and current electricity. Following the demonstration, facilitate a discussion on the principles observed and their potential applications in game design, emphasizing safety considerations. Conclude the launch by having students play the game "Operation" to explore and discuss the role of circuits, setting the stage for their own game design journey.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Circuit Carnival' where they set up interactive booths to showcase their redesigned 'Operation' games. Each booth will feature hands-on activities that allow visitors to explore the principles of electricity and magnetism through engaging demonstrations. The event will invite classmates, teachers, and community members to participate, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Attendees will have the opportunity to play the games and engage in discussions with students about their design process and the scientific concepts applied. This exhibition will serve as a platform for students to communicate their understanding and creativity while receiving feedback from a diverse audience.