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Cherokee County

Energy Management

Learn important general electrical concepts as you experiment with making a light switch, testing voltages and even build motors. Study energy use, magnetism, electronics and transistors. Learn how small engines work and how to keep them working or discover the power of the wind! Learn about where the wind blows and how its power can be used for sailing, lifting, pumping water and creating electricity.

Things to Learn/Do in the Project

Electric/Electronics
Ages 7-9

  • Make a simple circuit, a flashlight, and a switch
  • Find out about magnetism and make a compass

Ages 10-13

  • Learn about Ohm's Law and use a volt-ohm meter
  • Label a circuit diagram
  • Build a three way switch

Ages 14 and Older

  • Determine your family's electrical usage
  • Measure electric usage of appliances
  • Test grounded outlets
  • Explore Electronics
  • Build simple radios, microphones, computers and other equipment
  • Explore careers in electronics and engineering

Small Engines
Ages 7-9

  • Learn major parts of engines
  • Importance of clean air to an efficient running engine
  • How to service a small engine and replace a spark plug

Ages 10-13

  • Learn safe ways to operate an engine
  • Learn engine cycles
  • Identify useful tools and internal parts of an engine
  • Learn different engine types and sizes

Ages 14 and Older

  • Learn to trouble shoot and repair and rebuild an engine
  • Use the internet to find resources, rules and regulations for small engines
  • Start your own business or career

Power of the Wind
Ages 11-13

  • Design and build a wind powered boat
  • Design and build wind turbines
  • Discover where and why the wind blows
  • Discover the wind in art and literature

Project Materials

Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.

Electric (EL100)

General Electric Resources

Project Leader Resources

Small Engines (SE 100)

Additional Small Engines Resources

Power of the Wind (EM101)

Additional Power of the Wind Resources

Awards and Recognition

County Level
Award: Medal presented at your 4-H Achievement Banquet
Donor: Midwest Energy, Inc.

State Level
Award: Medallion
Donor: Midwest Energy, Inc.

National Level
Award: $400 National 4-H Congress Scholarship
Donor: Midwest Energy, Inc.

Career Connections