DIY Small Electric Tank Puzzle

What Students Will Learn

Students will explore core STEM concepts including basic electrical circuits, energy transfer, and mechanical advantage through gear trains. The assembly process develops sequential thinking, spatial reasoning, and troubleshooting skills. By completing the tank puzzle, students gain practical experience in connecting a motor to a power source, understanding polarity, and observing how electrical energy converts to kinetic motion. This activity also fosters perseverance and collaborative problem-solving when undertaken in pairs or small groups.

Who It's For

This product is designed for students in Years 3–6, with particular suitability for upper primary STEM clubs, extension activities, and cross-curricular integration. It aligns with Science, Design and Technologies, and Digital Technologies learning areas. The kit is also an excellent resource for school holiday programs, maker spaces, and inquiry-based learning units.

Australian Curriculum Links

The DIY Small Electric Tank Puzzle directly supports the following Australian Curriculum outcomes:

• Science (Years 3–6): ACSSU097 – Electrical energy can be transferred and transformed in electrical circuits; ACSIS231 – Use formal measurements and digital technologies to investigate questions.
• Design and Technologies (Years 3–6): ACTDEK010 – Investigate how forces and materials are used in products; ACTDEP016 – Generate, develop, and communicate design ideas.
• Digital Technologies (Years 3–6): ACTDIK007 – Recognise different types of data and how they are represented; ACTDIP013 – Plan, create, and communicate ideas and information.
• STEM F-10: This resource supports the integrated STEM capability by combining science inquiry, design thinking, and mathematical reasoning in a single hands-on project.

Coding Platform

No coding required. This product is a purely mechanical and electronic construction kit, making it ideal for introducing foundational STEM concepts without the need for programming devices or software. It can be used as a standalone activity or as a precursor to coding-based robotics projects.

What's in the Box

Each kit contains all necessary components for one complete tank model:

• Pre-cut plastic chassis and body panels
• DC motor with wire leads
• Battery holder (requires 2 x AA batteries, not included)
• Wheel and track assembly parts
• Gear set and axles
• Screws, nuts, and assembly tools
• Illustrated step-by-step instruction booklet

Classroom Setup & Requirements

Each student or pair requires one kit and two AA batteries. Assembly time is approximately 45–60 minutes. A clear, flat workspace is recommended. Teachers should prepare by familiarising themselves with the instruction booklet and pre-checking battery polarity. The activity is suitable for whole-class instruction, small group rotations, or as a station in a STEM inquiry centre. No soldering or specialist tools are needed. A basic screwdriver (Phillips head) may assist, though the included tool is sufficient. The completed tank operates on a hard, smooth surface for best results.

Support & Warranty

Stemology stands behind the quality of this product. The DIY Small Electric Tank Puzzle comes with a 12-month warranty against manufacturing defects. If you encounter any issues or have questions about classroom implementation, please contact us at admin@stemology.com.au. Our team is dedicated to supporting Australian educators with prompt, helpful advice.

Bulk & School Orders

Stemology offers competitive bulk pricing for school orders of 10+ units. We accept official school purchase orders via email at admin@stemology.com.au. Please include your school name, contact details, and quantity required. We will respond within 24 hours with a tailored quote. For larger orders, we can also provide a free classroom activity guide and curriculum mapping document to support integration into your STEM program.