What Makes Motors Run and Generators Spin
Electromagnetism, energy transformation, and hands-on building
An interactive workshop that introduces the science behind motors and generators through demonstrations, experiments, and a creative build-and-compete activity.
Workshop Overview
Students explore key ideas behind motors and generators by seeing electromagnetic effects in action and connecting them to real devices. The session emphasizes energy conversion in both directions: turning motion into electricity and turning electricity into motion.
Conceptual Framework
The workshop blends scientific experimentation with historical context. Students encounter foundational principles in electromagnetism and energy transformation while also learning how these ideas shaped the development of modern motors and generators.
Historical figures such as Michael Faraday and Heinrich Lenz serve as reference points to connect the concepts to real discovery and scientific reasoning.
Workshop Structure
Historical Encounters
Selected staff members, prepared in advance, take on the roles of scientists such as Michael Faraday and Heinrich Lenz. Through short theatrical interactions, they guide students through key ideas in electromagnetism and energy transfer.
Creative Construction and Competition
Students receive a kit to build a small robotic model resembling an insect that moves using six legs. After assembling and decorating their robots, they join a friendly competition focused on creativity, design, and performance.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the workshop, students will be able to:
- Understand core principles of electromagnetism
- Recognize the historical development of motors and generators
- Apply scientific concepts by building a functional robotic model
- Strengthen creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
Setting
School gymnasium
Participants
Grades 6–8 students (no restrictions apply)
Format
Interactive experiments, guided demonstrations, and hands-on assembly