This comprehensive kit introduces students to the principles of mechanical engineering and simple electrical circuits through the construction of a functioning electric roll gate. Students will explore gear systems, motor mechanics, and the practical application of switches and power sources. By building and testing their own model, learners gain hands-on understanding of how real-world automated gates operate, developing problem-solving skills and an appreciation for the engineering design process. The kit encourages iterative testing and modification, fostering critical thinking and resilience in STEM learning.
Designed for students in Years 5–8, this kit is ideal for classroom use in Design and Technology, Science, and STEM elective subjects. It supports both introductory and intermediate learners, with extension opportunities for advanced students to modify gear ratios or add manual override features. Suitable for individual or small-group project work, the kit aligns with middle-school curriculum outcomes in engineering and systems thinking.
This product directly supports the Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies (Years 5–8) by enabling students to design, modify, and follow procedures involving electrical systems and simple control mechanisms. It addresses outcomes related to exploring and representing systems, and applying design thinking to produce solutions. In Science (Years 5–6), it links to physical sciences content on forces and electrical circuits, while in STEM F-10, it provides a practical context for integrating knowledge from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Teachers can use this kit to deliver cross-curricular projects meeting multiple ACARA descriptors.
No coding required. This kit focuses on mechanical and electrical design, making it accessible for students without prior programming experience. Teachers wishing to incorporate automation or control can optionally integrate third-party microcontrollers (not included) for advanced extension activities.
Each kit requires a flat workspace, such as a desk or table, and a Phillips-head screwdriver (not included). The kit uses 2 x AA batteries (not included). Estimated build time is 45–60 minutes for a single student or 30–40 minutes for pairs. For class sets, we recommend one kit per two students for optimal collaboration. No specialist tools or power outlets are needed, making this ideal for standard classrooms. Teachers should allocate time for testing and iteration, and may wish to set up a testing station with a ruler and stopwatch for measuring gate speed and travel distance.
All Stemology products come with a 12-month warranty against manufacturing defects. If any component is faulty or missing, we will replace it free of charge. For technical support, curriculum advice, or warranty claims, please contact us at admin@stemology.com.au. Our team is committed to ensuring your classroom experience is successful.
We offer tiered bulk pricing for orders of 10+ kits, with additional discounts for class sets (20+). Schools can place orders via official purchase order (PO) – simply email your PO to admin@stemology.com.au or select the "School Order" option at checkout. Bulk orders receive priority shipping and may include free teacher resources such as lesson plans and assessment rubrics. Contact us for a custom quote tailored to your school's needs.