Download Lesson 3

Lesson 3 - Simple Circuits
Core Curriculum SLC District - Science Standard IV: Students will understand features of static and
current electricity. Objective 1: Describe the behavior of static electricity as observed in nature and
everyday occurrences. Objective 2: Analyze the behavior of current electricity.
Lesson Length 50 minutes;
3 minute introduction;
3 minute discussion on expectations for the video and accompanying worksheet;
15 minute video;
5 minute discussion of answers and accumulated knowledge to this point (utilize vocabulary);
3 minutes to explain directions on next worksheet;
15 minutes to complete worksheet;
7 minutes to ask wrap-up questions
Focus Students will 1. predict ways to light a bulb, 2. operationally define parts of an electrical circuit,
3) construct and test models of electrical circuits.
Vocabulary Battery, electrical energy, circuit, electricity, static electricity, electrons, protons,
conductors, resistors
Materials Video – Electrical Circuits (SLC district – 2658)(15 minutes) and Electrical Circuits worksheet,
D batteries, wire cutters, bulbs, worksheet one, wire
Background Info Let the students know that this type of experimentation is perfectly safe. Higher
voltage experiments can be unsafe.
Preparation Complete individual packages for the students with one battery, wire and light bulb.
Procedure 1. Show the video and go through the questions with the students (important as the movie
answers the questions (pause when necessary for time to answer questions). 3. Give 3 minutes to
discuss any questions about the movie. 4. Ask for prior knowledge with materials (after watching the
video their responses should be more complete). Make sure these ideas are reiterated: a battery is a
source of electrical energy; the wire carries electrical energy; the bulb changes electrical energy into light
energy. 5. Take 5 minutes to discuss the worksheet and have them work for 15 minutes to complete it.
6. Wrap-up questions should include: three parts of a circuit (source, wire, bulb); path of electricity in a
circuit (full circle); interruption of the path/circuit. Have them trace the path with their fingers.
Adaptation/Extension
Utilize SIOP methods. Use visual reinforcements when discussing the source and circuit. In step two of
the individual worksheet help students by drawing the wires for them and have them circle the diagrams
that actually lit.