Paper circuits are easily constructed with different combinations of conductive material glued to or laid over paper. Materials may include conductive copper tape, conductive thread, insulated wires, paper clips, bulldog clips, pencil lead, virtually anything that allows electricity to flow. Combining these with 3V lithium batteries, LED lights, buzzers, etc. creates endless possibilities of circuits. Projects include light up badges, origami, greeting cards, bookmarks, you name it! We’ve even made origami paper circuit creations!
Paper circuits are a great way to introduce and explore conductivity and electricity with children, in quick and fun projects, with practical and immediate results. With a range of materials to work with, it’s easy to get started. Projects can range from ‘follow the instructions’ to more inquiry based explorations.
Paper circuits activities allow students to problem solve, tinker around, and get creative by combining science concepts into art projects. When the LEDs light up, it’s guaranteed to put a smile on every face!
The materials may be obtained in dollar stores, hardware stores, or even online. Find some local (Vancouver area) suppliers and online suppliers here. Project cost if you purchase supplies in bulk is about $1.50 per project or even less!
LED lights light up just by clipping it over the 3V batteries, so from there on, the projects are really more about designing circuits using conductive and non-conductive materials to create paths for electricity to flow, and incorporating them into different paper objects. The challenges in designing should be fun and motivating to learners. You can find a lesson plan here: http://www.maketolearn.org/learn/lessons/led-pull-tab-circuit-lesson/
Please visit http://tinkering.exploratorium.edu/paper-circuits/ for more project ideas.
Visit SparkFun for the ‘Great Big Guide to Paper Circuits’.