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Discover transistors with the Joule Thief

The Joule Thief and the history of the transistor

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Overview

This free workshop delves into the fascinating world of transistors! We'll introduce pupils in North Wales to the history of the transistor and explore how this building block of modern electronics has transformed our daily lives.

They'll also get to build their own transistor circuit - the Joule Thief. This joule thief extracts the last bit of energy from 'dead' batteries to help power an LED light. The circuit is similar to those used by electronic engineers. Pupils will have the opportunity to find out more about the various careers available in electronic engineering and the different people who work in the field.

To help challenge stereotypes about who can be an engineer, Bangor University invites engineers from different backgrounds, genders, and career paths to share their stories and lead activities.

As a follow-up session to the main experience, schools are invited to visit the department for further STEM workshops. This gives pupils insight into both a STEM workplace and a university.

Details

Curriculum links
  • Physics: Electricity and electromagnetism
  • Sciences - Forces, electricity and waves: Electricity
  • Physics: Electricity
  • Sciences - Forces and energy: Using electricity
  • Technology & design - Control: Incorporate control systems in products
Group size
Small groups, Whole class

  • Workshops are available for groups of 5 to 30 students.

Participation level
Hands-on
Duration
Up to an hour
Cost
Free
Location
In-school
  • Conwy
  • Denbighshire
  • Flintshire

Learning outcomes

  • Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects
  • Attainment and progress
  • Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers
  • Challenge stereotypes by showing the diversity of disciplines, people and skills involved in engineering

Frameworks

EqualEx

  • Introduce and Inspire

Essential skills

The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:

  • Problem solving - Finding solutions to challenges
  • Teamwork - Working cooperatively with others to achieve a shared goal

Enrichment framework

  • 5 - An accessible and engagement enrichment offer
  • 6 - An enrichment offer that works in partnership
  • 7 - An outcomes-focused enrichment offer

How to book

Check availability at your school first