I get asked all the time how I come up with science activities to do with my boys. Well, I research a lot. I love science and teaching, so it’s important for me to bring the lesson to life. Also, let’s face it, I have just as much fun as they do. I also hear moms and dads saying that they are intimidated by science that has too many steps or materials to complete. I am all for making a mess, but I do try to find activities that are simple enough for the boys to do mostly on their own. This is one of those projects that can be completed independently with a little guidance.
The DIY Light Saber is a wonderful way to teach your kids about electricity, open and closed circuits, and the difference between conductors and insulators. They will be amazed at what they create. When we first made these it was so much fun seeing the boy’s eyes light up when the saber lit up! I was able to talk about the elements of electricity and explain open and closed circuits as we went through the steps of the project. They understood it so much more, and the information has stuck with them. This project is simple and effective. The best part is you don’t have to be an electrical engineer to do it!
Let’s get started. Here is what you need:
Copper Tape: https://amzn.to/3JIE1LB
Jumbo Craft Sticks: https://amzn.to/40AjfDH
Large Paper Clips: https://amzn.to/3XpjJdn
LED Lights: https://amzn.to/3IcnJJT
Lithium Button Batteries: https://amzn.to/3YwuJGr
The first step you will do is to cut two pieces of copper tape to run the length of the craft stick on both sides. Remove the sticky backing and place the tape on both sides of the craft stick. This can be a bit tricky to keep the tape smooth as you tape it to the stick. Don’t be afraid to cut a few extra strips in case you need to start over. It’s important to keep the tape as smooth as possible on the stick.
Next you take your led light and place it on one end of the stick. The prongs at the bottom of the light will line up with the copper tape on both sides of the stick. Carefully peel back the end of the tape on both sides of the stick the length of the prongs on the light. You will put the metal prongs underneath the tape on either side of the stick. Then gently press the tape back over the prongs to secure the light in place.
On the opposite end you will clamp down the large paper clip. Flip open both sides of the clip so they fold backwards. Now place your battery on one side of the stick near the end by the paper clip. We did use a little scotch tape to secure the battery, but it isn’t necessary. Now you have created an open circuit. When you fold both sides of the paper clip back over it will clamp the battery into place. When both sides are down the bottom side will make contact with the copper tape, and the top side will clamp down on the battery. This creates a closed circuit, and the light at the end will turn on!! Open up one side of the paper clip and the light will turn off making it an open circuit once again.
It’s really that easy!! My kids made several using different colors of led lights. These are so easy and fun to make. It makes for a fun and informative science project that they use and show all of their friends. Give it a shot and see for yourself how much fun science can be for you and your kids.