BACKGROUND:
An electric current is the flow of
electric charge which transports energy from one place to another. It is
measured in amperes, where 1 ampere is the flow of 6 1/4 billion-billion
electrons (or protons) per second. However, no current exists unless
there is a complete pathway or circuit through which electrons may flow.
The flow of electricity through a circuit can be stopped by breaking or
opening the circuit with a switch. By closing the circuit the flow of
electricity can be restored.
Students will get a
"simple" look at how electricity works by making a "quiz
board." A quiz board not only illustrates a simple circuit but also
gives students experience working with electric circuits. This is a
simple example of how to make an electronic game board. Their finished
product will allow them to ask questions that are wired into the correct
answer. When the person matches the answer with the question, a bulb
will light up telling them it is the correct match.
PROCEDURE:
- Holding the cardboard lengthwise,
attach 5 paper clips about an inch apart along the left side. Attach the
remaining 5 paper clips to the right side in a direct line with the
corresponding clips on the left. Number the clips 1-10 (see diagram).
- Hook the alligator clip to one of
the paper clips on the left side of the cardboard and match it to a
paper clip on the right side. Remember to mix up the sequence when
making a quiz board. If using wires, make sure to scrape off the
insulation. Connect the wires from a left paper clip to a right paper
clip. Make sure the connections are firm. Devise a list of 5 questions.
Write them on small slips of paper and put them under each of the 5
paper clips on the left side of the cardboard. Write the answers to the
questions on 5 other slips of paper and put them under the corresponding
paper clip on the right side. The circuit will be completed with the
correct question/answer combination.
- To complete the circuit, set up
the light bulb and the battery as in the diagram. Read the first
question and try to make a connection. Connect the alligator clips from
the paper clip with the question to a paper clip with the correct
answer. If the correct connection is made between the question and
answer, the bulb lights up.
- This circuit board illustrates
that through planning using logic, you can derive answers. This
elemental circuitry is at the base of advanced circuitry.
