Unit Overview

Kids use their creativity and knowledge of electrical engineering to design a light display that replicates the colors and patterns of the Northern Lights.

  • Grades 3–5
  • Setting: Out of school
  • Science connection: Electrical circuits
  • 9 activities
  • 45 minutes per activity

Standards alignment

We’ve developed each EiE unit with careful attention to educational standards in both science and technology/engineering. View Standards Alignments.

Unit Map

Kids engineer a tower and are introduced to the Engineering Design Process as a problem-solving tool.

Kids explore the idea that they, as engineers, can design and improve technology.

Kids learn about electrical circuits by investigating different materials that allow electricity to move through them.

Kids use sculpting materials to create circuits that can turn on a light.

Kids create circuits that can turn on multiple lights at once.

Kids explore a variety of materials that alter the appearance of light.

Kids engineer a light display that mimics the colors and patterns of the Northern Lights.

Kids improve their light displays.

What's Included?

  • Educator Guide (PDF)
  • Engineering Journal (PDF)
  • Context-Setting Audio Messages (.mp3)
  • Print Materials (PDF)
  • Additional Resources