Solar Bug STEM Project Kits - Set of 4

Grades 3-12

Make a solar-powered bug that zips around and makes noise. Students will explore solar energy, motion, and engineering as sunlight directly powers a vibrating motor. Use as a stand-alone STEM activity or as part of a larger solar energy lesson. This set of 4 bugs is ideal for small group or distance learning environments. Classroom set of 25 also available (NE30036).

How the build works:

• Use the included Maker Tape™ to connect the vibrating motor to the solar cell
• You will need a hot glue gun and a wire cutter to complete the 5- to 10-minute project
• To use kit as part of a solar classroom activity, test different types of light sources to see if the solar panel reacts in different ways
• To expand the lesson have the kids test heat, brightness of light, and solar power generation out of each light source or even have them use a ruler to take readings at different distances from each light source
• Kit includes enough supplies for 4 full bugs, as well as 8 different card stock bug templates, additional bug legs and wings can be found online
• Online directions in both English and Spanish available

WARNING: Choking Hazard. Small Parts. Not for children under 3 yrs.