The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project

Application of Circuits (3 of 4)

Electricity- Application of Circuits (3 of 4)

A 9-12 grade STEM lesson

Karissa Ham

5-1-2024

Notes for teachers

This lesson takes place in a classroom and covers 2- 50 minute periods.

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It would be best for students to work independently. Students may work in small groups of 2 if they could use the extra support.

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Electricity- Electric Current & Power: Click here

Application of Circuits: Click here

Electricity- Electric House Project: Click here

List of Materials

Day 1 Activity

Materials Needed:

• EUDAX circuit kit (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZCJRST7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
• AA batteries

Day 2 Activity

Materials Needed:

• EUDAX circuit kit (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07ZCJRST7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
• AA batteries

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Arizona Science Standards

Science Standards

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HS-PS3-3

Students are expected to design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.

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HS-PS2-5

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This involves using mathematical representations to support the claim that the total momentum of a system of objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system.

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Next Generation Science Standards

HS-PS3-5

Develop and use a model to illustrate that energy at the macroscopic scale can be accounted for as either motions of particles (kinetic energy) or as stored in fields (potential energy).

HS-PS3-2

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Develop and use models to illustrate that energy at the macroscopic scale can be accounted for as either motions of particles or as stored in fields. This standard is relevant as students use circuit kits to model real-world electrical systems and understand the movement of electrical energy and its effects.

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Objectives:

Students will identify and explain the function of various electronic components included in the EUDAX kit, such as resistors, capacitors, and LEDs. They will construct basic series and parallel circuits, understanding how each configuration affects the overall function and behavior of the circuit.

Students will demonstrate proficiency in assembling circuits using the EUDAX kit, following schematic diagrams to correctly place and connect components. They will gain hands-on experience in manipulating small electronic parts and using tools like breadboards and wiring connectors.

Students will learn and apply troubleshooting strategies to identify and resolve issues in their circuit setups. This includes checking for loose connections, ensuring correct component orientation, and verifying circuit configurations against schematics to ensure functional and safe operation.

Agenda (2-50 minute periods)

Day 1

Introduction

Hands-On Activity

Observation and Discussion

Assessment

Day 2

Review and Setup

Hands-On Activity

Troubleshooting Workshop

Assessment and Reflection

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Intro/Driving Question/Opening

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“I don’t care that they stole my idea. I care that they don’t have any of their own.”

-Nikola Tesla

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LET’S BUILD CIRCUITS

Electricity and Circuits

Electrical energy is one of the most common and most useful forms of energy. Circuits in electrical devices allow electricity use with a flip of a switch.

What makes a circuit?

Electrical device

Voltage source

Conductor

Switch

converts electrical energy into another form

source of electricity, such as batteries or electric outlets

material that allows current to flow

controls the current flow

Practice!!

We will be using our EUDAX circuit kits to practice building circuits! Please open your kit and lay out the components. We will be starting with a simple series circuit.

You will be building an open and closed simple series circuit. This circuits will have a power source, switch and either a single light or multiple lights that are connected in the loop.

Series Circuits

Simple Open Circuit

The switch is off, no current flows and no energy is converted.

Simple Closed Circuit

The switch is on, allowing the current to flow and use energy to power a device.

Series Circuit

It has a single loop where current flows. All devices are connected in the loop.

You will be building an open and closed simple series circuit. This circuits will have a power source, switch and a two or more lights that are independent of each other.

Parallel Circuits

Parallel Circuit

It has two or more loops where current flows. Each loop is independent of the other.

Challenges

Create a working circuit with both series and parallel components.

Using the EUDAX kit, build a wind turbine.

Using the EUDAX kit, build a car.

Day 1 Hands-on Activity Instructions

Constructing Simple Circuits

Objective: Students will understand the basic components of electrical circuits and differentiate between series and parallel circuits by constructing each type using the EUDAX kit.

Materials Needed:

• EUDAX Physics Science Lab Learning Circuit Kits
• Circuit diagrams for series and parallel circuits
• Instruction sheets with step-by-step guidance
• Worksheets for recording observations
• Multimeters (for measuring voltage and current, optional)

Duration: 30 minutes

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare Materials: Ensure each student or group has a EUDAX kit, which should include batteries, wires, resistors, LEDs, and other necessary components.
2. Print Diagrams and Instructions: Provide clear, labeled diagrams of both series and parallel circuits. Include step-by-step instructions for constructing the circuits.
3. Set Up Workstations: Arrange the classroom with enough space for each group to work comfortably with their kits and diagrams.

Lesson Activities:

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1. Introduction (5 minutes):
• Briefly review the concept of electrical circuits and introduce the two types of circuits they will build: series and parallel.
• Discuss the importance of circuit configuration on the behavior of the circuit, such as how brightness of bulbs or LEDs might differ.
2. Building a Series Circuit (10 minutes):
• Distribute the circuit diagrams and instructions for building a series circuit.
• Guide the students as they connect the components according to the diagram. Ensure each student connects at least one component.
• Once completed, have them test the circuit by closing the switch or connecting the battery, and observe what happens (e.g., how the LEDs light up).
3. Discussion (5 minutes):
• Discuss observations with the series circuit. Ask students to describe how the components are connected (one after another) and how this affects the overall circuit behavior (e.g., if one LED goes out, the circuit breaks).
4. Building a Parallel Circuit (10 minutes):
• Provide diagrams and instructions for a parallel circuit.
• Assist students as they build the parallel circuit. Ensure each student actively participates.
• Test the circuit as before, noting differences in how the LEDs light up compared to the series circuit.
5. Comparison and Conclusion (5 minutes):
• Encourage students to compare the behavior of the series and parallel circuits, particularly focusing on the brightness of LEDs and what happens when one component in the circuit fails.
• Highlight key points such as voltage distribution and current path in both types of circuits.

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Day 2 Hands-on Activity Instructions

Advanced Circuit Construction and Troubleshooting

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Objective: Students will apply their understanding of series and parallel circuits by constructing a complex circuit that includes both types of elements, focusing on achieving specific functional goals such as varying light intensity or activating different components.

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Materials Needed:

• EUDAX Physics Science Lab Learning Circuit Kits
• Instruction sheets with guidelines on combining series and parallel elements
• Circuit diagrams for reference
• Worksheets for planning and documenting circuit designs
• Multimeters for measuring voltage and current

Duration: 30 minutes

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Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare Materials: Check that each EUDAX kit includes batteries, wires, resistors, LEDs, switches, and other necessary components.
2. Create Reference Materials: Provide sample diagrams of circuits that combine series and parallel configurations.
3. Setup Workstations: Organize the classroom into workstations with ample space for students to work and access to all materials.

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Lesson Activities:

1. Introduction and Review (5 minutes):
• Quickly review the concepts of series and parallel circuits, highlighting their key differences and typical uses.
• Introduce the objective of the session: to build a circuit that incorporates both series and parallel elements to achieve a specific goal.
2. Design Phase (10 minutes):
• Hand out worksheets where students can sketch their circuit plans. These should specify what the circuit aims to achieve (e.g., operate two LEDs at different brightness levels).
• Encourage students to think creatively about how to use series and parallel configurations to meet their circuit’s goals.
3. Construction Phase (10 minutes):
• Students begin constructing their circuits based on their designs. Circulate the room to provide support and guidance.
• Encourage students to use multimeters to check connections and ensure their circuit is working as intended.
4. Testing and Troubleshooting (5 minutes):
• Have students test their circuits and observe the functionality. For instance, do the LEDs light as expected? Are there any components that do not function?
• Encourage students to troubleshoot issues by checking connections, ensuring correct component orientation, and verifying that their circuit matches their initial design.
5. Discussion and Reflection (5 minutes):
• Convene as a class and have a few groups share their designs and the reasoning behind their circuit configurations.
• Discuss any common issues encountered and how they were resolved. Highlight the learning points from combining series and parallel elements.

Assessment

Formative Assessments:

• Participation and Engagement: Evaluate students on their active participation and engagement in the building process.
• Circuit Design and Functionality: Assess the functionality of the circuits and how well they meet the design goals set out in the worksheets.
• Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving Skills: Observe and note students’ ability to troubleshoot and solve problems during the construction phase.
• Worksheet Completion: Have students complete a worksheet that asks them to describe the two types of circuits, their observations, and the implications of each configuration.

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Differentiation

Small Group or One-on-One Sessions: Offer additional support sessions for students who need more time to grasp concepts. Use these sessions to revisit key ideas, provide extra examples, and address individual misunderstandings.

Step-by-Step Guidance: For hands-on activities, provide a detailed, step-by-step guide or checklist to help students who may struggle with following procedural instructions.

Peer Tutoring: Pair students who understand the material well with those who need extra help. This peer-to-peer interaction can often clarify doubts in a relatable way.

Remediation

Extension/Enrichment

Enrichment Activity: Design a Themed Circuit Project

Objective

Students will apply their understanding of electrical circuits to design and implement a functional circuit for a specific application, such as a model house or an automated device, enhancing their practical skills and creativity.

Materials Needed

• EUDAX Physics Science Lab Learning Circuit Kits: Including batteries, wires, LEDs, resistors, switches, and other components.
• Additional Components: Sensors (like thermistors or phototransistors), buzzers, and additional light sources as needed for specific projects.
• Base Materials: Cardboard, plastic, or wood for constructing models (e.g., houses or devices).
• Tools: Wire cutters, pliers, soldering kits (if appropriate and with supervision).
• Documentation Supplies: Paper, pencils, and software for circuit diagrams.

Activities

1. Project Selection and Planning (Duration: 1-2 class periods)
• Introduction: Present the concept of the project and discuss possible themes such as:
• A lighting circuit for a model house.
• A burglar alarm system for a small model.
• A temperature sensor system for maintaining environmental conditions.
• Team Formation and Role Assignment: Divide students into small groups and assign roles based on interest and skill, such as project manager, designer, electrician, etc.
• Initial Sketch and Design: Each group sketches their circuit design, choosing what components to use and how they will integrate series and parallel circuits.
2. Construction Phase (Duration: 3-4 class periods)
• Circuit Building: Using their designs, students begin constructing their circuits on a breadboard or other suitable platform.
• Integration: Students integrate additional components like sensors or switches based on their project requirements.
• Testing and Refinement: Continuously test the circuit for functionality and make necessary adjustments.
3. Documentation and Presentation (Duration: 2 class periods)
• Documentation: Each group prepares documentation that includes their circuit diagrams, a description of how the circuit works, and the purpose it serves.
• Presentation: Groups present their finished projects to the class, demonstrating the functionality and explaining the science behind their designs.