Basic Circuit

Build a Basic Circuit

Work in pairs (partners)

1. Collect your supplies (one set for each pair)

  • one - Light Emitting Diode (LED)
  • one - 9 volt battery
  • one - 9 volt battery connector
  • one - container of Play-Doh
  • one - small piece of aluminum foil

2. Create a basic circuit

  • Connect wires using pieces of Play-Doh. Just push the wires into the Play-Doh.
    • Play-Doh happens to be conductive which means it allows electricity to flow easily.
  • If the LED doesn't light try switching the wires.

3. Add a switch

  • Use the piece of aluminum foil to create a pressure sensitive switch. Push on the switch to turn the LED on.

4. Experiment with different types of circuits

  • Partner with other teams to build these circuits.

Series Circuit

Parallel Circuit

BONUS MATERIAL

Makey Makey LABZ - Simple Circuit Challenge

Colleen Graves has created and shared a wonderful "simple circuit challenge" HERE.


Watch the 2 min. 26 sec video below to learn what a circuit is.

Watch the video below to further understand what a simple circuit is.

What is electricity? Watch this video.

Simple Circuits Curriculum

Causal Patterns in Simple Circuits is a set of lessons that are to be infused into a broader unit on simple electrical circuits. The lessons are designed to address a set of persistent misunderstandings that students have when learning about simple circuits. Developed by Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.


MIT Graduates attempt to light a bulb. VIDEO HERE


Sources for Materials used in "Build a Basic Circuit"

  • Supplies (one of the following for every two people):
    • LED - Lighthouse LEDs 10 x 5mm 9v Pre-Wired Red LED - Ultra Bright (7v, 8v, 9v)
    • 9v battery - The link takes you to the amazon website to purchase their "basic" brand but you can buy these anywhere.
    • Connector for 9v battery - Uxcell Black Red Short Cable Connection 9V Battery Clips Connector Buckle(10-Pack)
    • Play-Doh - Regular off the shelf play-doh used to facilitate connections of wires. I like to buy the "Play-Doh Party Bag Dough, 15 Count (assorted colors)"