Is It Conductive or Not? STEM Conductivity Experiment

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Electricity is fascinating for kids! They often wonder how it works, why some objects conduct electricity while others don’t, and which materials make the best conductors. While we can explain these ideas, nothing compares to hands-on experimentation.

This simple STEM conductivity experiment helps kids see electricity in action by testing everyday objects. It’s an exciting, interactive introduction to electric circuits, conductors, and insulators—perfect for home or classroom learning.

Supplies for the Conductivity Experiment

To get started, you’ll need:

• Alligator clips (at least 3)
• LED light bulb
• AA battery holder & batteries
• Various household objects (both conductive and non-conductive):
  • Penny
  • Paperclip
  • Nail
  • Pencil
  • Plastic toys
  • Rubber band
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden stick
  • Spoon (metal and plastic versions for comparison)

How to Set Up the Conductivity Experiment

Step 1: Prepare the Battery Pack

• Insert the batteries into the battery holder.
• Connect an alligator clip to each side of the battery pack:
• Red = Positive (+)   &  Black = Negative (-)

Step 2: Attach the LED Light

• Take a third alligator clip and connect it to one side of the LED light.
• Match the longer pin of the LED (positive) with the positive (red) clip from the battery pack.

Step 3: Test for Conductivity

• Attach or touch the two open alligator clips to an object you want to test.
• Observe the LED light: If it lights up, the material is conductive. If it stays off, the material is not conductive.

Helpful Tip

Alligator clips can be tricky for younger kids. Help position the clips, or let them hold the metal ends against the object while you stabilize the wires.

The Science Behind Conductivity

Why do some objects conduct electricity while others don’t?

Electricity moves through materials by the flow of electrons. Conductive materials—like metals—have free electrons that allow electric current to pass through them easily. Non-conductive materials, such as rubber and plastic, have tightly bound electrons, preventing the flow of electricity.

Examples of Conductors and Insulators

With this simple yet powerful STEM conductivity experiment, your kids will gain a deeper understanding of electrical circuits, conductivity, and the properties of different materials. Let me know in the comments—what unexpected materials did you test?

Extensions & Variations on the Conductivity Experiment

Want to take this experiment further? Try these fun variations:

1. Test Unusual Conductors

• Try a pencil lead (graphite)—is it conductive?
• Test salt water vs. distilled water—does adding salt change conductivity?
• Experiment with different metals—does copper conduct better than aluminum?

2. Build a Simple Switch

• Instead of touching objects, create a basic circuit switch using a paperclip and a small piece of cardboard.
• Open and close the switch to turn the LED light on and off.

3. Introduce Resistance

• Use different materials to see if some dim the LED instead of turning it fully on (showing resistance instead of complete conductivity).

4. Conductive vs. Insulating Art

• Check out our Science Art: Conductive Paint Circuits activity for an exciting way to combine creativity with conductivity experiments!

This simple experiment gives kids a deeper understanding of electrical circuits, conductivity, and material properties in a way that’s fun and memorable.
What surprising objects did your kids discover were conductive?

If your kids love hands-on science, be sure to check out my STEAM Kids book for more engaging and educational activities!