Mini Electric Motor

This simple electric motor uses electricity and magnetism to spin a wire coil that’s supported by paper clips. It is a fun exercise that helps you learn about the underlying scientific principles found in every motor no matter how advanced it may be. Tools and materials include: D cell battery, 20 inches of 16 ga magnet wire, magnet, 2 paper clips, tape, scissors and 120 grit sand paper.  We wrap 20 turns of magnetwire around the battery, forming a coil. Wrap the two ends of the wire around opposite sides of the coil of wire 3 times, leaving 2 inch tails sticking out perpendicular. Remove the insulation from one end completely. On the other end only remove the bottom half of the insulation.   Bend two paperclips in a particular fashion and tape one to each end of the battery. Install coil of wire into the loops we bent into the paperclips. The coil should spin freely. Attach the magnet onto the side of battery and slide it into position underneath the coil. Give the coil a spin and wahlah! You've built a motor.  There is no risk of electrical shock in this project.

These classes are geared toward ages 6-12. older kids are wellcome as well.

You can drop off the kiddos , while you go run errands or take a mommy break (classes are 2 hours)  You can also stay if you wish to help your youngsters if you feel they might need it. If you wish to do your own little project along with them we ask that you purchase an additional ticket when you arrive to help cover those extra materials cost.

 We have 6 tickets set at $15 and then an additional 4 tickets that are Free scholarship for low income families. 

Instructor  Jeremy Kuznia

A little bit about teacher:

"I have an AAS degree in Electronic Technician for Manufacturing from South Central Technical college where I studied basic electricity and electronics. I repair appliances for a living and when I'm at home I'm usually taking it apart to see how it works. I teach 3D printing at the Mankato Makerspace. When my oldest son was in 4th grade, I taught his class of 20 students this class about the theory of magnetism. Together we successfully constructed 20 of these simple battery powered, electric motors in about 90 minutes." JK