Hands-On Science With Squishy Circuits

Elizabeth Brown

ET - Learning Styles
IL - Critical Thinking
Z - Fun

Thomas, A.M. (2013). Hands-on science with squishy circuits. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/annmariethomassquishycircuits.html

Summary
In this Ted talk, Thomas proposes having children use play dough to create their own "squishy circuits" and learn about electricity in the process. Specifically, she suggests making home-made play dough for this project, including two different recipes. The first one calls for flour, salt, vegetable oil, and cream of tartar. While the other is the same except that it calls for sugar instead of salt. Thomas explains that when the different play dough's are incorporated  the sugar dough "has a resistance 150 times that of the salty dough," while the "salty dough conducts electricity." The end result is that circuits have been created. She displays the play dough on a table and later in the presentation demonstrates the different things that can be done with it. For instance, she connects wires which causes the circuit to light up. Thomas also connects a piece of play dough to a motor, creating a spinning-tail motor in the process.

Evaluation 
This is a great example of project-based learning. I can see how this project would be both fun and educational for children. Its amazing that children are doing such complex work: designing circuits, but are doing it in a creative, age - appropriate way. My friend recently completed a lesson on electricity for 5th graders. I plan on recommending this talk and lesson to her. Perhaps she can use it next year.