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These resources have been reviewed and selected by STEM Learning’s team of education specialists for factual accuracy and relevance to teaching STEM subjects in UK schools.

Graphite Circuits

We rely on electric circuits every day, in our homes, schools and places of work, as well as in our portable gadgets and kitchens. In this activity, a circuit drawn by a pencil conducts electricity to light an LED.

You’ll need to get hold of an LED, some wires and crocodile clips – these are all available cheaply online or from high street electronics shops.

Learning outcomes:

  • Investigate the conductive properties of graphite
  • Use observation and creative problem-solving skills
  • Understand how the conductive properties of materials have useful applications in our everyday lives

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