Project 6 - Button Motor "K-12 JUNO STEM KIT"

What You Can Build using K-12 JUNO STEM KIT

In the "Button Motor" project from the K-12 JUNO STEM Kit, children get hands-on as they assemble a simple motor circuit controlled by a pushbutton. By wiring a pushbutton switch in series with a motor and power source, learners create an interactive device where pressing the button powers the motor to spin. This engaging project reveals fundamental principles of electrical circuits, switches, and mechanical motion through a tactile and rewarding experience.

What You Can Learn

• Basic Circuitry: Kids connect batteries, pushbuttons, and motors, discovering how electrical current can be controlled to produce motion.

• Input Control: Learners understand how a pushbutton acts as an input device to start and stop mechanical action, introducing concepts of switches and user control.

• Cause and Effect: By pressing the button to activate the motor, children see immediate cause-and-effect in action, building logical thinking required for automation systems.

• Reading Diagrams: Students practice reading simple circuit diagrams with switches and motor components, enhancing technical literacy.

Real Life Problem Solving

• Troubleshooting: If the motor doesn’t spin, learners check battery power, pushbutton connections, and wiring, developing a patient, stepwise approach to problem solving.

• Device Understanding: The project introduces real-world concepts from toys, appliances, and systems where pushbuttons control motors and mechanical parts.

• Design Thinking: Learners experiment with different button placements or add resistors to modify motor speed, encouraging creative tweaks and iteration.

Additional Benefits

• Creativity: Students can customize the motor mount, decorate the switch, or incorporate the motor into other fun mechanical creations.

• Collaboration: Button Motor supports teamwork and communication as peers work together to build and troubleshoot.

• Confidence: Successfully powering a motor with a simple switch enhances mastery and inspires further STEM exploration.

• Foundation for Future Learning: This project lays groundwork for understanding sensors, motor drivers, and programmable motor control.

Why Button Motor Matters

The Button Motor project provides a clear, hands-on example of how electrical control leads to mechanical motion. It makes foundational concepts tangible and accessible while encouraging problem solving and critical thinking. Each motor spin powered by a button is a step toward mastering electrical engineering and robotics.

With Project 7: Button Motor, every child gets the chance to feel the power of circuits and motion at their fingertips!