Example: Designing a portable fan
A student wants to make a portable fan for use on the school bus when it's hot.
Resources and equipment
Motor, fan, battery, connecting wires, switch (made out of split pins, cardboard and paper-clip), blue tack.
Sketch
Sketch initial ideas for the portable fan and show how the product works.
Solutions for circuit
Consider the circuit required to operate the portable fan.
Discuss and write down the different options. Decide on the best electrical circuit.
Casing
Paddle pop sticks will be used to make the case of the portable fan. Student can use blue tack to stick the wiring and components to the insides of the paddle pop sticks to hold the circuit in place. Information will be written on the outside paddle pop sticks about how the product works.