Light Up Robots with Paper Circuits

Light up robot on foam board w/ paper circuits

I've been learning about ways to add more science to my art projects via conferences, Edcamp Chicago, Twitter, the Art of Tinkering book, and of course having a husband who is a high school science teacher helps. I decided to try creating an art and science lesson using paper circuits as a first step. The plan  (see this blog post were I drew out the plan and animated what I hoped would be the results here) is to have students design and paint a robot, make a circuit with copper tape, LEDs, and batteries on the back that lead to a flap in the front that will complete the circuit.
I submitted the plan as a project on Donor's Choose. So, if you would like to in pitch a few bucks to help us get a chance to make these use this link. (Thanks for considering!)

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Click for Robot ideas

I put this pinterest board of robot ideas together for designing a robot. There are SO many amazing ideas here. I was very inspired so I ordered a stash of supplies via amazon and tried it out today. 

Designed a Robot on Foam Board

Metallic Paints outlined in black Sharpie

close up of battery with copper tape on flap

I punched small holes in the eyes (boy that sounds mean) and cut a battery-sized circle from the center of the robot belly. I kept my circle as a "flap" for closing the circuit to turn on the LED lights I snugged up into the holes in the eyes. 

Series circuit on the back of the robot

Please donate so we can try this project

Supply List:

• copper foil adhesive tape
• 3V lithium batteries  (need 2)
• LEDs
• metallic paints
• foam core illustration board
• Awl to punch holes

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Here is a quick look at the things this lesson can teach

UPDATE: view my tutorial here