Copper Tape Interactive Poster
Stage: Year 5-6 / KS2 (Ages 9-11) Time: 1-2 hours Subjects: Art, Design & Technology, Science (Sensors & Materials) Board: SPOKE (full board)
Learning Objectives
Design and create an interactive piece of artwork
Understand how conductive tape extends a touch sensor to a new location
Plan tape paths so they don't touch each other and trigger the wrong sensor
Combine creativity with basic electronics
Overview
Pupils design a poster or piece of artwork and add copper tape "traces" that connect touch points to the SPOKE board. Touching different parts of the artwork triggers different sounds, turning a static poster into an interactive display.
Materials Needed
SPOKE board
Poster paper or card
Copper tape
Scissors or a craft knife
Crocodile clips and wire
Colouring/art materials
Computer with web browser
Instructions
Sketch a design and decide which parts of the artwork will be touch points (6-10 works well)
Plan copper tape paths from each touch point to the edge of the poster, keeping paths from crossing
Lay down the copper tape, pressing firmly for a good connection, overlapping pieces at corners
Add artwork and colour around the tape, hiding traces on the back where possible
Connect each copper tape path to a SPOKE sensor pad using a crocodile clip
Test every touch point before finishing — press and check the sound plays
Add final decoration once all connections are confirmed working
Teacher Tips
Copper tape gives instant results with no drying time, so pupils can test and adjust as they go
If two paths need to cross, route one on the front and one on the back of the poster
Larger touch areas are easier for younger pupils to trigger reliably
Extension Ideas
Layer multiple posters for a 3D pop-up interactive scene
Link touch points to a themed set of sounds from the Audio Playground
Display finished posters as an interactive class gallery
Copper tape is quicker and easier for classroom use than conductive paint, with no drying time needed.
