SMARTLAB: Squishy Circuits - Mastering Circuits with Conductive Dough
Our 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade students are moving from coding robots to designing electrical systems in a truly hands-on, unforgettable way! Using Squishy Circuits—a mix of conductive and insulating dough—our students are building, testing, and troubleshooting real electrical circuits.
This creative activity doesn't just teach theory; it brings physics concepts to life. Students are learning to:
Construct Open and Closed Circuits to light up LEDs and spin motors.
Analyze the difference between Series and Parallel Circuits and how they affect power flow.
Identify and avoid a Short Circuit, understanding safety and system failure.
By working with these tangible materials, our students are developing advanced spatial reasoning and engineering design skills. This experience transforms complex electrical concepts into fun, colorful, and edible-looking projects. They aren't just reading about science—they're building it! This foundational knowledge in circuitry is critical for future studies in robotics, computer hardware, and electrical engineering.
