10 STEM projects to try out at home
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1. Build a battery with spare change
Whether it’s burning time during quarantine or just looking for upcoming summer pastimes, these activities are great for STEM-lovers of all ages.
With a few simple materials including pennies, sand paper, and vinegar, you can easily build a battery with spare change. The battery can power a small calculator or LED bulb.
SEE: Virtual hiring tips for job seekers and recruiters (free PDF) (TechRepublic)
2. Create a solar-powered phone charger
ASCAS on Instructables.com takes you through the steps of how to create a solar-powered phone charger for only $5. Using a USB charger and solar panels, you can charge your smartphone via sunlight.
3. Configure an automatic plant watering system
With the Arduino automatic plant watering kit, you can both take care of your plant babies and dabble in DIY. The kit features a pump, soil moisture sensors, water switch, and more. It can deliver the right amount of water for up to four plants.
4. Construct a model motorcycle or car
A fun option to do with kits, this construction kit from Engino helps users build 14 models including a tractor, car, or motorcycle. With wheels, axles, and inclined planes, you can build a bevy of structures.
5. Run your own film
This wooden kit from RoWood provides all the pieces to build your own film projector. Once the intricate projector is assembled, users can then watch films by rotating the hand crank.
6. Extend your Wi-Fi range
6. Extend your Wi-Fi range
Using a tin can, you can make your own at-home Wi-Fi antenna. If your Wi-Fi modem ever goes out, you have a backup that you engineered yourself.
7. Create your own USB charging station
Beginning with a standard wall outlet, anyone can create a four-port USB charger. The USB charging configuration can be purchased from a hardware store, and then it’s time to put your electrical skills to the test. Check out the step-by-step guide to learn how to properly get charging.
8. Make a lava lamp
Another fun idea to do with kids is to create a temporary lava lamp. With vegetable oil, water, Alka Seltzer tablets, and food coloring, lava lamps become cool again.
9. Build a robot buggy
Using Raspberry Pi 3, a motor controller board, some cardboard, and more, creating a self-driving buggy isn’t that difficult. The exercise is a great beginner lesson for Raspberry Pi users, and creates a fun little device to program.
10. Erupt a volcano
In all honesty, building a volcano is fun at any age. With a kit from National Geographic, constructing the volcano is fun and easy. You can even bring your artistic side out by painting the volcano to make it more realistic.
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Remote working 101: Professional’s guide to the tools of the trade (ZDNet)
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Tech history: Check out our coverage (TechRepublic on Flipboard)
