Build a radio transmitter with paper clips, a 9 volt battery and a small electromagnet (it’s just a lump of metal with wire wrapped around, we got ours from dis-used door openers). When you see the spark, noisy radio frequencies are transmitted, and can be received (within a 2-metre range) with small AM radios. Spark Gap transmitters were used for Morse code communications right up until after the First World War. You can find out more here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spark-gap_transmitter
This Making/Tinkering workshop is ideal for participants who like to experiment with building circuits. There is a certain challenge in getting the transmitter to work; the paper clips must be carefully placed, which requires fine motor skills.
As well as the activity, we will find out more about the fascinating history of the ‘Spark Era’, when radio was first discovered as a tool for communication. We can also use our transmitters to discover more about electro magnetic waves, of this is appropriate for the group’s age and current knowledge.
Suitable for: year 6 (age 10) to adult
Maximum participants: 12