Making parallel circuits
I can use circuit diagrams to build parallel circuits and draw circuit diagrams of parallel circuits.
Making parallel circuits
I can use circuit diagrams to build parallel circuits and draw circuit diagrams of parallel circuits.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A parallel circuit is a circuit with more than one complete loop, from one end of a battery round to the other end.
- A circuit is built systematically following a circuit diagram, round in one direction, starting from any point.
- A parallel circuit is built systematically, completing each loop of the circuit in turn.
- A circuit diagram is drawn systematically, following each loop round and completing each one in turn.
- Wires in a circuit diagram are drawn with a ruler for clarity, with no tiny gaps that would break the circuit.
Common misconception
Components of a parallel circuit must match the exact layout of a circuit diagram.
Focus on pupils starting at one end of the battery and building each loop up in turn, focusing on putting the connections in the correct order.
Keywords
Series circuit - A series circuit is an electric circuit with one complete loop, from one end of a battery round to the other end.
Complete circuit - A complete circuit is one with no gaps, so electricity is able to flow round the circuit.
Parallel circuit - A parallel circuit is a circuit with more than one complete loop, from one end of a battery round to the other end.
Circuit diagram - A circuit diagram is a simple and clear way of showing the setup and components in an electrical circuit.
Equipment
Electrical leads, batteries, bulbs and holders, switches.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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