Zap Lab: Build and Power Cool Circuits

 Week 1: What is Electricity? Let’s Get Charged!

• Objective: Understand the basics of electricity and how it powers our world.
• Highlights:
  • Learn about circuits, energy sources, and how electricity flows.
  • Experiment with simple batteries and light bulbs to see how circuits work.
  • Fun Activity: Build a basic circuit to light up a small bulb.

Week 2: Building Circuits: Lights, Buzzers, and More

• Objective: Design and build working circuits with various components.
• Highlights:
  • Explore the differences between series and parallel circuits.
  • Learn how to connect lights, buzzers, and switches.
  • Fun Activity: Create a circuit that powers a light and a buzzer at the same time.

Week 3: Experimenting with Conductors and Insulators

• Objective: Discover which materials conduct electricity and which don’t.
• Highlights:
  • Test various materials like metals, plastics, and fabrics to see if they conduct electricity.
  • Learn how insulators keep us safe from electrical shocks.
  • Fun Activity: Create a conductivity tester and use it to classify materials.

Week 4: Motion in Action: Powering Moving Parts

• Objective: Add movement to your circuits using motors and gears.
• Highlights:
  • Explore how motors work and how they can power small machines.
  • Combine circuits with moving parts to create dynamic inventions.
  • Fun Activity: Build a circuit-powered fan or spinning object.

Week 5: Inventor’s Workshop: Design Your Own Gadget

• Objective: Apply what you’ve learned to invent your own unique gadget.
• Highlights:
  • Brainstorm ideas for creative and functional inventions.
  • Plan and build a working prototype using circuits and other materials.
  • Fun Activity: Work on a personalized project, like a light-up greeting card or a moving toy.

Week 6: The Zap Lab Showcase

• Objective: Present and celebrate your circuit-powered creations.
• Highlights:
  • Share your inventions with family and friends in a fun showcase.
  • Explain how your circuit works and the challenges you solved.
  • Celebrate your creativity and innovation with your award certificate!

 *Note: Course outline subject to change based on grade level of students and prior knowledge of students--we believe in providing a truly differentiated learning environment!*