Measuring electric current
I can measure current and describe the rule for current in a series circuit.
Measuring electric current
I can measure current and describe the rule for current in a series circuit.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- An ammeter is used to measure the size of an electric current.
- An ammeter measures the current flowing through it without affecting the current in the circuit it is connected into.
- Electric current is measured in amps (A), which is short for amperes.
- The current in a series circuit is the same everywhere.
- Adding a component to a series circuit changes the current everywhere, on both sides of the component.
Keywords
Ammeter - An ammeter is a device that measures the current flowing in a circuit.
Amp - An ammeter measures the current in units called amps (A) which is short for amperes.
Series circuit - An ammeter is always placed in a series circuit so the electric current has to pass through it.
Common misconception
Pupils hold a consumption model of electric current in which it is used up in a circuit. They misuse the terms: voltage, current and electricity and choose a voltmeter to measure current.
Get pupils to investigate the size of current through a range of different conductors (and insulators) with an ammeter in a simple circuit. This will help them familiarise themselves with it and its use.
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Measuring electric current, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Measuring electric current, 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.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Series circuits unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
a tiny negatively charged particle
this can be either negative or positive
a component that pushes out and pulls in electrons
Exit quiz
6 Questions
