Piezoelectric crystal
Discovering the properties of the piezoelectric crystal and how it can be used to generate electricity
In this activity students will investigate a simple piezoelectric device.
The lesson demonstrates how an LED circuit can be powered by flexing the piezoelectric device. The goal is for students to understand that piezoelectric devices generate a potential difference (voltage) when it is squashed or stretched.
This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the secondary national curriculum, particularly KS3, supporting the teaching in design & technology (D&T). The lesson can be accompanied by Aesthetics and design: colour and feelings and Piezoelectric product.
Activity: Discovering the properties of the piezoelectric crystal and how it can be used to generate electricity
Students will be presented with a mystery piezoelectric device. They’ll have to guess what it is and what it does through a fun 20-questions style interrogation.
Following the questions, students can handle the device.
Download our activity overview for a detailed lesson plan on piezoelectric crystals.
The engineering context
The engineers behind the Watt Nightclub in Rotterdam turn the energy created by clubbers on the dancefloor into power for the lighting. There’s even a giant battery to monitor the energy and encourage the crowd to dance even more. Their work demonstrates that doing your bit for the environment doesn’t have to be boring!
Suggested learning outcomes
By the end of the lesson students will be able to explain the characteristics of a piezoelectric device.
Download our activity sheet and other teaching resources
The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download (include videos!), and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation below.
Please do share your highlights with us @IETeducation.
