A material is what objects are made from such as wood, metal or plastic.

An electrical conductor is a material that allows electricity to pass through it easily.

A mineral is a naturally occurring solid, e.g. a salt.

An electrical insulator is a material that does not allow electricity to pass through it easily.

Electrical conductors and insulators

Science

In this Simple electrical circuits unit, pupils learn to construct a simple series electrical circuit, identifying and naming its basic parts. In the Changing circuits unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn to compare and give reasons for variations in how components function in a simple circuit

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, plastic, glass and metal. In this Simple electrical circuits unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to recognise some common conductors and insulators, and associate metals with being good conductors

This unit covers constructing simple series electrical circuits, identifying parts like cells, wires, and switches, and recognising conductors and insulators. It also explores how circuits work with lamps and switches. The emphasis is on practical enquiries, making observations, and presenting data.

Simple electrical circuits

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

An electrical {{}} is a material that allows electricity to pass through it easily.

An electrical {{}} is a material that does **not** allow electricity to pass through it easily.

If you include an electrical insulator in a circuit with a motor, what would the motor do?

Which of these objects are made of the best material for conducting electricity?

Are the minerals in water electrical conductors or electrical insulators?

Which of these materials are electrical insulators? 

These objects are made of different materials.  Which object has a label for the incorrect material?

Which of these are properties of materials? 

A {{}} is a device which has to be connected to a circuit in a particular direction, with its positive connector connected closest to the positive end of the cell.

Which of these are used to control circuits?

By creating a barrier which reflects electricity.

By creating a barrier which absorbs electricity.

By creating a space where electricity cannot flow. 

How do switches break the loop in a circuit?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet