Source Institutions
Source Institutions
Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
![](/sites/default/files/styles/square250/public/resource_images/smile-000-000-001-931.gif?itok=lm9UJCrv)
In this design challenge activity, learners investigate series circuits and motors to build a hand-held "kick stick." Their goal is create a battery-operated device that sends a Ping-Pong ball across the floor. The activity is a fun, hands-on way for learners to get a taste for the design process. This lesson guide includes instructions on how to introduce the challenge, associated videos, brainstorming questions, and tips for learners.
- Under 5 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per student
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English, Spanish
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- 3-volt motor (the kind with gear attached to shaft)
- AA battery in a battery holder
- cardboard
- rubber faucet washer (3⁄4-inch or larger)
- paper clips
- duct tape
- wire strippers
- aluminum foil
- 2 craft sticks
- hook-up wire (e.g.22-gauge, stranded
- paint stirrer
- Ping Pong ball
- scissors
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
-
Engineering
-
Physical Sciences
-
Electricity and Magnetism
- Electric Charges and Currents
- Electric Motors
- Electric Circuits
-
Electricity and Magnetism
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
-
The Scientific Process
-
The Nature of Technology
-
The Design Process
- Invention and Innovation
- Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
The Design Process
Informal Categories
- Electronics
- Toys
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
- Learner handout (English PDF)
- Learner handout (Spanish PDF)
- Watch a demo
- Just for Kicks Challenge Episode Clip
- Series Circuits Episode Clip
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Source Collection
- Design Squad Nation
Rights:
- All rights reserved, WGBH Educational Foundation, 2009
Funding Source:
- National Science Foundation, 0810996