Make a radio receiver (World War II)

In this activity learners will make use of the theme of World War 2 to learn about how FM radio was used by the Allied forces during the war. They will then assemble a circuit that acts as an FM radio receiver. Finally, they will test their circuit to see how well it works.

This activity could be used as a main lesson activity to teach about how radio and radio systems work, and how to assemble a radio receiver circuit. It could also be used as part of wider scheme of learning focussed on electronic systems and circuits, or as part of a wider theme-based project on World War 2.

This is one of a series of resources that are designed to allow learners to use the theme of the second world war to develop their knowledge and understanding in Design & Technology and Engineering. This resource focusses on learners assembling an FM radio receiver circuit. This is a challenging activity that involves assembling a bought-in kit of parts using soldering irons. It is aimed at Year 6 pupils with good ability in Design & Technology.

Tools/supplies needed:

• Solder
• FM radio kit including PCB and all required components
• Soldering irons
• Soldering iron stand and damp sponge
• Desk protector board
• Safety glasses
• Wire cutters
• Wire strippers

Extension

• Design a casing for the radio circuit
• Make a model of your casing in card
• Design a carry case for the radio

The Engineering Context

Engineers need to be able to understand how electronic circuits are made and how they work, for example how to construct and investigate the function of a radio circuit.
Engineers need to understand the historical context of different technological inventions, such as radio, and how they were used. This helps them to learn from mistakes made and produce improved products and systems.

Suggested learning outcomes

This resource combines Design and Technology and Engineering, with the aim that the learners will be able to understand how FM radio was used during the second world war, to be able to make and test an FM radio receiver circuit and to be able to use circuit assembly and soldering equipment safely.

Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources for free!

All activity sheets 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 teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

You can download our step-by-step instructions below as a classroom lesson plan and PowerPoint presentation.

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