Lesson Plan

Objectives:

(PA Science & Technology Standards: 3.4.4B)

(PA Science & Technology Standard: 3.1.4.B, 3.2.4C)

Process Skills:

Materials: (For each group of 4-6 students)

D cells

Bulbs

Bulb holders

Wire

Prediction Worksheets 1 & 2

Make a Circuit Activity Sheet

Time Requirement:

45-60 minutes

Procedure:

1. Define the qualities and characteristics of a basic circuit. Ask the students to predict whether or not the bulb will light for each of the examples on Prediction Sheet 1.

2. Assign a "Materials Manager" for each cooperative group to gather supplies.

3. Direct all groups of students to construct each basic circuit pictured on Prediction Sheet 1 to check their predictions and record their results on their own Prediction Sheet 1.

4. Ask all groups of students to work cooperatively to make predictions for each of the examples pictured on Prediction Sheet 2. Remind the students to refer to the results of their tests on Prediction Sheet 1 to help guide their predictions on Prediction Sheet 2.

5. Direct all groups of students to construct and test each circuit pictured on Prediction Sheet 2. The circuits pictured on this sheet are more difficult than the basic circuits pictured on Prediction Sheet 1. As appropriate, this activity can be used for the more advanced students or as an extension activity or learning center.

Assessment:

Have the students draw the appropriate wires needed to create each basis circuit on the Make a Circuit activity sheet. The students may also be asked to construct one or more of the examples pictured on the Make a Circuit activity sheet as a guided self-assessment.

Branching Out

Student Resources:

http://www.brainpop.com/science/electricity/electricity/index.weml

http://www.brainpop.com/science/electricity/batteries/index.weml

http://www.energyquest.ca.gov/story/chapter04.html

http://www.physics4kids.com/files/elec_main.html

Teacher Resources:

http://www.monroe2boces.org/shared/esp/eleccircbooks.htm

http://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/lesson_plans/science/physics/electricity

Related Pennsylvania Resources

http://www.appanet.org/

http://www.prea.com/main.htm

http://borough.chambersburg.pa.us/html/electric.html