Comparing series and parallel circuits
I can compare the properties of series and parallel circuits that have the same components.
Comparing series and parallel circuits
I can compare the properties of series and parallel circuits that have the same components.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- With the same battery, two bulbs in parallel are brighter than two in series.
- With the same battery, current through two bulbs in parallel is bigger than through two in series.
- With the same battery, voltage across one of two bulbs in parallel is bigger than across one of two bulbs in series.
- With the same battery, two bulbs in parallel are transferring energy from the battery more quickly than two in series.
- A battery lighting two bulbs in parallel will run out faster than the same battery lighting the two bulbs in series.
Keywords
Series circuit - a circuit with a single loop
Current - the rate of flow of charge in a circuit
Voltage - a measure of the ‘push’ an electrical cell will give to charges
Parallel circuit - a circuit with junctions that lead to separate loops
Common misconception
The battery produces a fixed sized current that splits between each branch of a parallel circuit.
Consider each branch of a parallel circuit as a separate series circuit connected to an identical battery, in which the total current through the battery is determined by the current it can push through each of the branches added together.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Comparing series and parallel circuits, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Comparing series and parallel circuits, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Resistance and parallel circuits unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
