Fixing faulty circuits
I can describe how a simple test circuit can be built and use it to test for faulty components, and find faults in a conducting circuit loop.
Fixing faulty circuits
I can describe how a simple test circuit can be built and use it to test for faulty components, and find faults in a conducting circuit loop.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The path current flows through a filament bulb can be traced, from one connection and through the filament to another.
- In a faulty filament bulb, the filament is broken and current cannot flow through it.
- A circuit is not complete if there are any breaks in the circuit or hidden in faulty wires or components .
- A wire or component can be tested by putting it into a simple circuit with a battery and bulb.
- A circuit with one faulty component will work if a wire is used to bypass the faulty component.
Keywords
Filament - The thin metal wire inside some light bulbs is called a filament. When it gets hot it glows and emits light.
Faulty component - A faulty component is one that is damaged or isn't conducting electricity properly.
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 where there are no gaps so electricity is able to flow round the circuit.
Test circuit - A test circuit is used to check if a component (or other circuit) is allowing electricity to flow through.
Common misconception
Pupils need to understand that there has to be a closed loop of conducting material, from one end of the battery or power supply, through the device and back to the battery.
Pupils should test a faulty circuit in a systematic way, e.g. starting at one point in the circuit and moving from component to component in order, going clockwise or anti-clockwise from that point.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
provides the 'push' to send electricity around a circuit.
allows electricity to flow from one component to another.
controls the flow of electricity.
spins when electricity flows through it.
emits light when electricity flows through it.
makes a sound when electricity flows through it.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
