De-mystify the “magic” of electric circuits, magnetism, motors and electronics. From building burglar alarms to learning how to select a good stereo and other consumer items. This project offers opportunities for hands-on experiences and knowledge you will use in the future. Experience technology firsthand while learning communication and decision-making skills.

Beginner

• Learn about safety and equipment used in working with electricity
• Identify tools and parts used in working with electricity
• Wire a simple circuit
• Build a compass
• Build a flashlight
• Construct a simple switch
• Build an electric motor

Intermediate

• Work with electrical equipment and tools
• Build and test circuits
• Measure circuit voltage
• Develop a basic electrical tool and supply kit
• Locate your home wiring system
• Make simple electrical repairs

Advanced

• Research the influence of electricity on society
• Identify electrical and electronic parts and devices
• Learn how to solder and prepare parts for assembly
• Assemble a circuit using a transistor

Applying Project Skills to Life

Enhance Your Communication Skills

• Create a video about how to build a compass
• Make a poster about closed and open circuits
• Give a speech about the history of electricity
• Demonstrate how to communicate in Morse Code
• Give a speech about electrical safety to your school class, local community group or 4-H club

Get Involved in Citizenship and Service

• Check friend’s or relatives’ homes for any electricity hazards
• Conduct an appliance survey
• Do simple repairs for neighbors and friends

Learn about Leadership

• Organize a safety workshop
• Plan, conduct and participate in an electric quiz bowl
• Teach an electricity workshop

Showing What You’ve Learned

• Build an electronic game board on the basic symbols used in electronic diagrams
• Make a display about basic electrical tools and parts and what they are used for
• Give a presentation on how electricity is produced
• Make a poster on ways to conserve energy use
• Build a homemade flashlight
• Create a simple switch
• Build a circuit with two batteries and a light bulb
• Build an electromagnet, galvanometer or compass
• Create circuit diagrams with explanations
• Display a soldered connection
• Create a display of light bulbs and the jobs they do best
• Create a poster on how to read an appliance nametag
• Develop a chart showing the electrical usage of appliances
• Create a poster on how to replace a switch
• Build a diode or transistor
• Build a 6- to 8-watt amplifier with an integrated