Catch the Bug - 50 Pack

Are you ready to “Catch the Bug”? The bug is a truly fantastic and meaningful electronics learning activity. Finished bugs run around the floor with their own personality. They roam and explore by bumping into objects and finding new paths around the room.

Bugs teach basic electronics through a physical interactive experience; an experience that yields deep and long lasting understanding. Electrical concepts have never made so much sense, or been so much fun.

Bugs have inspired countless students to pursue STEM careers, drastically increasing interest and enrollment in STEM courses, especially for girls. 

Classes Using the Bug:
Technology, Engineering, Science, Vocational After School, Home

Age Level:
Ages 13 and above; Bugs are used from middle school to university levels

The Bug Activity...

• makes electrical concepts interesting and understandable
• appeals to a multitude of abilities, ages and knowledge levels
• allows students to work at their own level and pace
• challenges students to gain a higher level of understanding
• provides additional challenges for advanced students
• provides structure and support for students with limited understanding
• challenges and engages students like no other electronics project
• teaches electrical concepts using exciting physical feedback
• allows students to take ownership in the learning process, and take home the finished bug
• surprisingly inexpensive

Bugs Teach:

• Electrical Circuits
• Current
• Voltage
• Resistance
• Switches
• Schematic Diagrams
• Soldering Techniques

What tools will you need to build this activity?

Process	Process Description	Recommended Tool	Alternate Tool
Screwdriver	Tighten and loosen screws	#1 Screwdriver	None
Wire striping / crimping	Strip wire insulation and Crimp spade connector on.	Crimping/Stripping Tool	Wire Stripper and Pliers
Soldering	Soldering wires to motors or other wires	Soldering Iron Package	None
Heating	Heats plastic and allows it to bend	Strip Heater	Blow Dryer, Heat gun, Hot water
Measuring	Measure output voltage	Digital Multimeter	None
Resistance	Acts as the load; allowing multi-meter to give a more accurate reading	Resistor (2.7 ohm)	None
Connecting Wires	Connects wires without having to solder or crimp	Alligator Clips	None

Additional Supplies Needed to Build a Bug:

• Safety Glasses
• AA Batteries (2 per Bug)

What's in the "Catch the Bug" Electronics Activity?