An electrical circuit is a closed loop or path that electricity can flow through to make something work.

A complete electrical circuit is made when all components are connected together correctly and there are no breaks in the circuit.

An incomplete electrical circuit is made when the components are not connected together correctly or there are breaks in the circuit.

Connectors are the places on components where the wires make contact to join it to the rest of the circuit.

An electrician is an expert in electrical circuits and electricity.

Troubleshooting problems with circuits

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

Which of these careers would check if circuits have been built incorrectly and also check for improper wiring? 

Which diagram shows a correctly connected cell? 

A circuit will not work if it is not part of a complete loop with a {{}} source. 

Don’t use electrical appliances in bathrooms.

Keep electrical cables bundled up in a big ball. 

Make sure your hands are dry if handling electrical appliances.

Which of these rules should we follow when using electricity and electrical appliances? 

test whether the components are connected correctly

test whether an electrician has made the circuit

To solve problems with electrical circuits, which of those do scientists do?

Which diagram shows a buzzer correctly connected to the circuit?

In an electrical circuit, which of these images would be called a cell?  

one of the wires is not connected to the bulb 

both wires are connected to the bulb holder and not the bulb

A {{}} electrical circuit is made when all components are connected together correctly.

In a circuit, a cell, battery, wires and bulb are called...

Which of these diagrams shows a complete 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