Rapid Prototyping · SHS3 Engineering

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.3.2.LI.1 - Convert a given schematic diagram into a breadboard circuit implementation and proceed to assemble components on the solderless breadboard and test the circuit.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify the main sections of a solderless breadboard (terminal strips, bus strips, tie points) and explain how the internal connections are arranged.
Interpret a simple electronic schematic diagram and map each component and connection to the correct location on a breadboard.
Assemble a given schematic circuit on a solderless breadboard, inserting components such as resistors, LEDs, transistors and connecting wires with correct polarity and orientation.
Test the assembled circuit using a digital multimeter to check continuity, measure voltage across components, and observe circuit performance.
Troubleshoot a non-working breadboard circuit by checking for loose connections, wrong component orientation and incorrect jumper placements, and report on the corrections made.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Systems Design and Prototyping (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Rapid Prototyping (3.2)
Content standard: 3.3.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate an ability to interpret electronic schematic diagrams and convert them to solderless breadboard circuits. 3.3.2.LO.1 Translate the content of a schematic diagram into a breadboard circuit implementation. 3.3.2.LO.2 Convert electronic schematic diagrams into PCB format and produce a corresponding functioning PCB board.
Indicator: 3.3.2.LI.1 - Convert a given schematic diagram into a breadboard circuit implementation and proceed to assemble components on the solderless breadboard and test the circuit.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 14 (Week 34 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 135

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning: Guide learners to assemble electronic components on the breadboard by interpreting given schematic diagrams. Learners also test assembled circuits by using digital multimeters to test for continuity, measure voltage across components and make observations on circuit performance.
Project-based Learning: Learners work on a project that involves interpreting and assembling components from a given schematic diagram on a solderless breadboard. The learners should test the assembled circuit by following test instructions and observing and reporting on results.
Self-Directed Learning: Explore online resources: There are many online resources available that can help Learners learn more about solderless breadboard circuit construction and assembly. Learners should be tasked to look for more schematics from these sources implement and report on outcomes.

Assessment (3.3.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Video tutorials, Computers with KiCad EDA installed
- PCB Prototype machine
- PCB materials