Love Bug STEM Challenge - Perfect for Valentine's Day!
Updated: January 19, 2025
Type: Stage 2 Lesson - Seasonal STEM Activity
Grade Level: 4th - 8th
In this hands-on challenge, students design a love bug that will use a vibrating motor and battery to move the bug along a surface at least 3 inches to deliver a Valentine’s Day message, demonstrating how electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy. Students will be introduced to open and closed circuits. Some students might go above and beyond and experiment with switches and light bulbs if provided.
This engineering design lesson is perfect for informal learning environments or a quick STEM activity to introduce the design process, promote habits of mind, and develop making skills. A more rigorous Stage 2 engineering unit includes in-depth exploration of the real-world context, application of science, math, and engineering skills, and explicit reflection to promote engineering learning.
Materials Needed:
Coin Cell Battery (3V)
Clear Tape
Plus any other fun materials like pipe cleaners, paper, etc.
Switches and light bulbs can be available for groups that need an extension
Aligns to NGSS and 2021 TEKS (4.8C, 5.6B, and 5.8B).
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