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Electricity

This day gives children a general introduction to electricity. We think about what we use electricity for and where it comes from, looking at renewable and non-renewable sources.  We then explore, through lots of hands-on activities, how electricity flows through circuits and we test some materials to see if they conduct electricity. The children then get to apply their knowledge by making a 'Steady Hand Game'.

National Curriculum Summary

Sc4

Sc4 Physical Processes:
Electricity - We learn to construct circuits, incorporating a power supply and a range of switches to make electrical devices work, and discover how changing the number or type of components can make bulbs brighter or dimmer. We find out how to represent these circuits using drawings and conventional symbols.

Sc3

Sc3 Materials and their Properties:
Grouping and Classifying Materials - We learn that some materials are better electrical conductors than others.

Main National Curriculum Links

Sc3 1c, Sc4 1a, 1b, 1c

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the day children will be able to:

  • construct a circuit, identifying the different parts and the purpose of each part
  • construct a switch and explain how it works
  • construct a circuit to test different materials to see if they are conductors or insulators 
  • explain where electricity comes from, that there are renewable and non-renewable sources and that different sources have pros and cons

Availability

All year round

Day Summary

The day begins with an introduction by the day leader, welcoming the group to the centre, followed by a whole-class game or activity.


The children then split into groups (usually 3) for the day's activity sessions: Circuits, Conductors & Insulators and Present and Future Energy.

Circuits

A number of circuit challenges and games help us discover how to make a bulb light up and how to how to break the circuit by introducing a switch. We also draw the circuits using the appropriate symbols and finish off by testing our skills by making a steady hand game!

Conductors and Insulators

We discuss the way that different materials act as conductors or insulators of electricity and devise a way to test different materials to see if they conduct. This is linked in to some work on safety and electricity.  We have a look at the real life applications of conductors and insulators.

Present and Future Energy

We begin by thinking about where electricity comes from – how does it get into our homes? – and play a game to help understanding of the generation process.

By introducing the terms renewables and non-renewables, the children are then encouraged to think about the pros and cons of each type of fuel, looking at issues such as longevity, cleanliness and reliability. We then think about how we use electricity at home and the need to conserve it. The children follow a sustainability trail around the centre and then play a game which encourages them to think about their roles, both at home and school, in conserving electricity.

 

Visit our Links page to find some fun ideas for pre-visit or follow-up activities! 

:: last modified 13 Aug 2010 ::