Solar Powered House
Please read the procedure before beginning! After reading, please watch the video. Some activities require more time and cleanup than others. You also have the choice of performing these activities in a way that suits your needs.
Not for children under 3 years. Adult supervision required. Follow approved procedures.
Materials
· Solar Powered House Template
· Scissors
· Copper Tape
· 2 Solar Panels
· 2 Pieces Double-Sided Adhesive
· 2 LEDs
· Washi Tape
Procedure
1. Cut pieces 1 (foundation), 2 (roof), and 3 (walls) from the ‘Solar House Template’ sheets. Only cut along the solid lines.
2. Fold pieces 2 and 3 along the dashed lines.
3. Optional step: Use crayons or markers (not included) to decorate the outside walls of the house (piece 3) on the side without dotted lines.
4. Piece 2 includes the schematic for the solar panels that will be on the roof and the LED that will light up the inside of the house. First, remove the wires from the solar panels by gently twisting and pulling them.
5. Place copper tape along the bold dotted lines on both sides of piece 2. Wrap the tape around the sides where the bold dotted lines meet.
6. Secure the solar panels to the dotted rectangles labeled ’solar panels’ using the double sided adhesive. Ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) sides of the solar panels match the labels on the schematic. The panels should lay on top of the copper tape so that the metal terminals by the labels are touching the copper tape.
7. Flatten the prongs on the LED in opposite directions so that it can be placed on the schematic with the diode (the part that lights up) pointing away from the paper. The longer prong is the positive prong, and the shorter prong is negative. When placed against the schematic, the prongs will cover the copper tape on either side. Place another piece of copper tape over each prong to attach the LED and complete the circuit.
8. Fold piece 3 (walls) with all of the dotted lines on the inside. Use the washi tape to secure each of the three bottom tabs to piece 1 (foundation) along the dotted square. Finally, secure the tab on the one side of piece 3 to the side without the tab to complete the walls.
9. Secure the roof on top using the washi tape to complete the house (see video). Place the house in direct sunlight or shine a bright light on the solar panels and look through the opening to see the LED light up!
The Science Behind It
Energy can be changed from one form to another. Light energy can be converted to electrical energy using solar panels, and electrical energy can be converted to mechanical and heat energy to power entire cities! You used your knowledge of circuitry to build a mini solar-powered house. Most homes are powered by burning coal and gas to make electricity, which are limited resources that create pollution that harms us and the environment. Many homes are now using solar panels because they do not harm the environment, and sunlight is unlimited!