STEM CHALLENGE Static Electricity and Conductivity Challenge | 3rd-8th Grade | Low Prep

Static Electricity & Conductivity Challenge: A Hands-On STEM Engineering Activity

Spark curiosity and excitement with the Static Electricity & Conductivity Challenge, an engaging hands-on STEM activity that introduces students to the fascinating world of electric charge and energy transfer. In this interactive lesson, students explore how static electricity forms and how different materials allow electricity to move—or stop it completely.

Through simple experiments with everyday materials, students discover how objects can attract, repel, and transfer energy without even touching. They investigate the difference between conductors and insulators, then apply what they’ve learned by designing a small system where static electricity or conductive materials trigger movement or complete a task.

As students experiment, build, and improve their designs, they practice the engineering design process—plan, build, test, and improve—while developing problem-solving skills and scientific curiosity.

This activity makes electricity approachable and exciting, helping students understand invisible forces through hands-on exploration and creative engineering.

Students will explore:

• How static electricity forms and behaves
• Attraction and repulsion between charged objects
• The difference between conductors and insulators
• Energy transfer and cause-and-effect systems
• The engineering design process through experimentation

Included in this lesson:

1. Step-by-Step Teacher Guide for a 60-90 minute lesson with learning objectives appropriate for 4th-8th Grade

2. Materials List

3. Student Brainstorming and Challenge Page

4. Student Data Collection Page

5. Student Reflection Page

6. Assessment Rubric

7. Additional Resources