Lesson Plan

3. Prior teacher preparation and knowledge of students:
Teachers must collect the materials listed on the handout. A good resource for this
material is www.kelvin.com for a complete list of materials; please reference the handout
on constructing a Fixed Magnet DC Motor.
Students will need a basic understanding of electrical charges. A good starting point is to
watch a power point presentation on DC motor fundamentals. Another example would
be to show the students an example of an electromagnet, and in so doing create a simple
circuit using batteries, or a DC power supply.
4. List of materials/resources.
Small Magnets (4-6 per motor)
Large Paper Clips
Alligator clip test leads 2 per motor
1/16” drill bit
D size battery holder
Wire cutters
D sized Alkaline Dry Cell
Clear Tape
Exacto knives, 1 per group
Needle Nose pliers
Wooden Block approximately ¾” x 4” x 4”
Enameled Magnet Wire 24-18 gauge approximately 24inches per motor
Toilet Paper Rolls, or a Wooden Dowel of approximately the same diameter.
5. Lesson Procedure
Introduction:
Review the handout on motor terminology.
Watch the power point presentation on DC motor fundamentals.
Review the handout on how to construct a fixed magnet DC motor.
Exploring/Development
Working individually, or in pairs, students will construct a fixed magnet DC motor.
As students progress through the project, ask them to identify the various parts and
the purpose they serve to allow the motor to operate. Students will be presented with
various problem solving opportunities, encourage them to try there own ideas to reach
the desired solution.
Instructors should use their judgment, when dealing with students with special needs.
Additional supervision or adaptations may be necessary. E.g. teacher aide must be
present with student at all times during the activity to prevent injury.