Solar SPRK+ Electricity Fundamentals and Photovoltaics

Sphero SPRK+
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Intended Grade Level(s):
6-8
Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Solar Photovoltaic
Learning Goal(s):
  1. Students will determine how to create various types of circuits in order to power loads with different electric needs.
  2. Students will identify the electric needs of a Sphero charger and build a circuit needed to charge this device.
Unit:
Solar SPRK+
Lesson Number:
4
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Project-Based Learning
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Writing
Estimated Activity Length:
1 hour 40 min
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon Solar SPRK+ L4.pdf
Description:

Students work through a number of solar circuit explorations that culminate in a challenge to charge the Sphero SPRK+ devices with solar panels. In this exploration, students will investigate the requirements of various loads, working toward the voltage and amperage requirements presented specifically by the SPRK+ charging station.

Science Kit Material(s) Used:
2-Volt, 500mA Solar Modules
Multimeter
Other Material(s) Used:
• Snap Circuits kit • 6 2-volt modules or a combination of different sizes that add up to this voltage (in order to provide more than they need) • Micro USB cable with alligator lead attachment