: An Electronic Textiles Unit in Exploring Computer Science, like all other units in ECS, comes with an extensive curriculum guide to support teachers as they prep and implement lessons.
The curriculum guide, available for download as part of our .zip package, outlines all lesson plans and project activities with detailed information on:
- How computational concepts and practices are introduced through making e-textile projects.
- How students can document and reflect on their learning by creating digital portfolios.
- How the e-textiles unit builds on other units within ECS.
- How e-textiles as a topic connects to CS standards.
The Electronic Textiles unit consists of four open-ended, hands-on projects requiring students to create artifacts with increasingly challenging computational concepts, use high and low-tech materials hone their crafting and designing skills, and troubleshoot malfunctioning projects. Learn more about these projects below.
The unit also comes with four intermediate-level additional modules: Music, Fading LEDs, Mapping, and NeoPixels. Learn more here!
Project 1: Paper Circuit
Single circuit project design:
Create a simple paper circuit greeting card that includes one LED. Introduce the concept of aesthetic design and personalization.
Key Concepts & Materials:
- Simple circuit
- Understanding polarity
- Materials: LEDs, copper tape (wire), paper
(1-2 hrs)
Project 2: Wristband
Simple wearable project:
Create a wristband with three LEDs in parallel and a switch that turns on the project when the ends of the wristband are snapped together.
Key Concepts & Materials:
- Parallel circuit, switch
- Designing and reading circuit diagrams
- Three-dimensional project
- Deconstruction
- Materials: Conductive thread, LEDs, battery and holder, fabric
(5-6 hrs)
Project 3: Collaborative Mural
Collaborative project:
As a class create a mural, with each panel made by two students. Each panel must have five independently programmable LEDs and two switches, allowing for four blinking light patterns.
Key Concepts & Materials:
- Programming for digital input: Sequences, conditionals, embedded conditionals or Boolean statements
- Collaborative work & division of labor
- Materials: Conductive thread, LEDs, fabric, microcontroller
(10 hrs)
Project 4: Human Sensors
Capstone project:
Create a project with two aluminum foil patches that act as a sensor when both are touched by a person. Program four+ lighting patterns based on different sensor readings.Key Concepts & Materials:
- Sensor design (handcrafted)
- Programming for analog input: operators, sensor range, Boolean statements
- Materials: Conductive aluminum foil, human body, LEDs, microcontroller, fabric
(10-14 hrs)