Category: The Wave

5th GRADE SCIENCE – SIMPLE CIRCUITS WITH THE MAKEY MAKEY

Submitted by Mr. Kaczor’s 5th Grade Science Classes

In today’s rapidly changing technology driven world, it is crucial for students to develop a deep understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts. One exciting way to engage students in the world of electronics and circuits is through the creation of controllers using everyday supplies such as cardboard, paper, aluminum foil, and tape. By integrating a Makey Makey, an invention kit, into the learning process, 5th grade students go on a fascinating journey to design and develop their own video games or activities. 

The project begins with an introduction to the basic principles of electricity and circuits. Students explore the properties of conductive materials, such as aluminum foil, and learn how to create simple circuits using these materials. They discover that by connecting the Makey Makey to their circuits, they can transform everyday objects into interactive input devices, allowing them to control various software applications.

One of the key aspects of this project is encouraging creativity and resourcefulness. Students use cardboard, paper, aluminum foil, and tape, as they work to design and construct their own unique game controllers. The process involves brainstorming ideas, sketching designs, and prototyping their creations. By utilizing their problem-solving skills, students learn to overcome challenges and improve their designs to ensure success.

Once the controllers are built, students connect them to the Makey Makey, a fun little microcontroller (link) that acts as a bridge between the physical cardboard controllers and their Chromebook. By attaching alligator clips from the Makey Makey to specific areas of their controllers, students establish connections that simulate keyboard inputs. As a result, their creations can now control student-designed video games or activities on their Chromebook computers.

With their controllers ready, students unleash their creativity to develop video games or activities that reflect their interests. They designed racing games, just dance games, push up contest games, shuttle race activities, or any other interactive experience they envision. By utilizing programming platforms like Tynker, students learn fundamental coding concepts while bringing their games to life. They integrate their controllers as input devices, enabling players to navigate through the games or interact with the activities.

The integration of simple circuits, everyday supplies, and the Makey Makey invention kit provides 5th grade students with a wonderful opportunity to explore the world of electronics, coding, and even a little game design. Through hands-on experimentation, critical thinking, and creativity, students not only gain a deeper understanding of STEM concepts but also develop invaluable skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. This interactive project empowers young learners to become inventors, designers, and programmers, fostering a passion for STEM that will serve them well in the ever evolving digital age.

As we plan for future STEM activities in 5th grade, we kindly request your support in donating some materials. If possible, we would greatly appreciate donations of duct tape, aluminum foil, masking tape, Makey Makey kit(s), and thin copper wire. Your contributions will help enhance our students’ hands-on learning experiences. Thank you for your continued support!