Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic principles of building an electric go cart.

Materials and Prep

• Cardboard
• Scissors
• Tape

Before starting this lesson, it would be helpful to have a basic understanding of circuits and electricity.

Activities

• 1. Design your go cart: Use the cardboard to create the base and body of your go cart. Cut out the shape of the car and attach the pieces together using tape.
• 2. Attach the wheels: Cut four straws and insert them through the sides of the go cart to create axles. Attach the wheels to the ends of the straws.
• 3. Create the circuit: Connect the battery and motor using wires. Make sure to connect the positive and negative terminals correctly.
• 4. Attach the motor: Secure the motor to the back of the go cart. Make sure it is aligned with the wheels.
• 5. Test your go cart: Place the go cart on a flat surface and turn on the switch. Watch as your electric go cart moves!

First Grade Talking Points

• "Electricity is a type of energy that can make things move."
• "A circuit is a path that electricity can flow through."
• "Batteries provide the electricity needed to power our go cart."
• "The motor is what makes the wheels of the go cart spin."
• "By connecting the battery to the motor, we create a circuit that allows electricity to flow and make the go cart move."