How to make a simple electronic switch

Learn how electronic switches work and assemble a variety of different switches in this fun and engaging STEM activity!

This is a free resource that could be used in KS2 as an extension to an activity to introduce circuits, or to support a design and make project, such as the doorbell activity or adding a motor to the ‘cardboard cars’ activity.

This activity will take approximately 70-90 minutes.

Tools/resources required

Projector/Whiteboard
4 x AA batteries in holder
Buzzers (e.g. Miniature Electronic Buzzer 6v)
3 lengths of wire, each 100-150 mm long (only a single length is required if a battery holder with attached wires is used; no wires will be needed if the buzzer also has attached wires)
4 metal split pin fasteners and 1 paper clip per pupil
A5 pieces of card (can be cut to A6 for backing of the paper clip switch and 2 x A7 for the folded and foil switch)
Metal foil
Sticky tape or electrical insulation tape.
(Potential sources for the components include Rapid or TTS Group)

If needed: Wire cutters/strippers

Optional:
Hole punches (ideally single hole punches)
Scissors
Pre-made models of each switch, for demonstration

Electronic switches

An electrical circuit is a group of components that are connected together, typically using wires. The wires are usually copper metal, which is highly conductive, coated with insulating plastic, to prevent electric shocks. The circuit must be continuous (i.e., have no breaks) to allow electricity to flow through the components and back to its source, such as a battery. Switches make a gap in the circuit to stop electricity flowing when they are open. There are a wide variety of different types of switches that can be used.

The engineering context

Circuits form the basis of all electrical equipment, ranging from lighting in homes to televisions and computers.

Suggested learning outcomes

By the end of this activity students will be able to construct an electrical switch, they will have an understanding that a complete circuit is required for electricity to flow, and they will be able to construct an electrical circuit.

Download the activity sheets for free!

All activity sheets, worksheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.

The activity sheet includes teacher notes, guidance, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved UK nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

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