Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I have a few questions:
1. in step 7 of the procedures, I don't understand how the wire wrapped around the nail will conduct any electricity if it is insulated wire. The only exposed portion is at either end, not touching the nail.
2. Are there any better photos available for steps 7-17 as the instructions are extremely difficult to followif you have never worked with these items before.
3. Step 14 does not explain how to attach the battery pack to the nail. It just says to do it. How do you attach the battery pack?

1) In step 7, you're wrapping wires around the nails. The nails won't be conducting any electricity - the coil of wire will be handling that. Simply wrap the insulated wire around the nail and leave the two wire ends exposed

2) Those are the photos we have. I'll suggest that we revisit the pictures as I agree they could be better.

3) You don't attach the battery pack to the nail. You use the alligator clips from each end of the battery pack to attach to the two wires on the coil around the nail.

I have a few more questions.
1. In step 8, the directions say to duct tape both ends of the nail. Do I tape the wire to the nail, or just tape the nail?
2. I am not sure how to connect the wires to the batteries in figure 2. Do I connect both black leads of my wire to the alligator clip and then both red ones?
3. When I coiled the wire around the nails, there was excess, so I ran the left over wire down and taped with the other end. Is that all right?
4. The wire had an aluminum foil shield and I know I am not an expert, but I don’t think that is what I need to do this. Is that the right wire? My dad and went and spoke with experts, and they said they think it is the right wire.
I apologize for all the questions, but I am really confused. Thank you.