An activity you can use in the classroom
The original telegraph system set up by Samuel Morse back in 1837 used electromagnets and switches in a series circuit to send a signal via a system of "dots" and "dashes" instantly over a great distance. In this activity, you'll build your own visible telegraph communication system.
- 6-volt lantern battery
- 3-volt light bulb in a socket
- 25-30 feet of insulated bell wire
- Start by building a long simple circuit. Place the bulb on one side of the classroom and the battery on the other. Make sure to connect both terminals on the light bulb socket but only connect one terminal on the battery.
- To activate the telegraph, touch the loose wire to the second terminal of the battery. This should cause the light to go on at the other side of the room.
- Divide your group in half-Senders and Receivers. Have the Senders stay with the battery and the Receivers stay with the light bulb.
- Have the Senders complete the "Send A Message" portion of the activity worksheet and use the telegraph you've built to send a message. The Receivers should record and translate the message that is sent under "Receive a Message."
- Now switch roles, and repeat Step 4 (meaning, send a message if you received one last time).
- The telegraph system you have only works in one direction. What could you do to change that? Fill out "Two-Way Messaging" on your worksheet.
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