Zap It!: Exciting Electricity Activities (Design Challenge)

Good, Keith

ISBN 10: 0822535653 ISBN 13: 9780822535652

Publisher: Lerner Pub Group, 2003

Synopsis

Introduces the basics behind the operation of various battery-powered electrical devices and provides instructions for making some simple devices that use different kinds of circuits and switches

About this title

Reviews

Gr 3-7-These books achieve their stated goal of involving readers in "designing and making their own working technology projects, using readily available salvaged or cheap materials" through explanations of basic concepts that are adaptable to a number of projects. Build It! features ideas for bridges, domes, structures that collapse, and pop-ups. Gear Up! explains the science behind machines such as pulleys, levers, crankshafts, gear wheels, and conveyor belts. Shape It! introduces several kinds of craft activities with molding materials, including salt dough, plaster, air-drying clay, and edible materials like cookie dough. Zap It! includes electric circuits, pressure pads, and different kinds of switches. Some of these ventures require less familiar supplies like "capacitors" and a "reed switch," which are clearly pictured, though no suggestions are given for where they might be purchased. Step-by-step directions with clear, colorful graphics and a list of materials needed accompany each activity. A small, cropped color photo often accompanies the idea. Suggestions for ways to expand on the projects are included. The format is clear and consistent throughout the series. The projects and topics outlined take some time and attention, and though they all have specific directions for getting started, readers are encouraged to use their creativity to adapt the ideas to original projects and inventions.-Marilyn Long Graham, Lee County Library System, Estero, FL

Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Lerner Pub Group
• Publication date: 2003
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0822535653
• ISBN 13: 9780822535652
• Binding: Library Binding
• Number of pages: 30