Static electricity is caused by the build-up of charge on insulators.

A positive charge is a type of electrical charge that is attracted to a negative charge.

A negative charge is a type of electrical charge that is attracted to a positive charge.

The electrostatic force is a force that acts between charges.

Static electricity

Science

Making a series circuit

Fixing faulty circuits

Electric current

Measuring electric current

Measuring voltage

Changing voltage

Static electricity: charge

In the Magnets and electromagnets unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn about how electric current flows through electromagnets, factors that affect the strength of electromagnets and uses of electromagnets that include a simple electric motor.

In Changing circuits unit (Y6), pupils learnt to construct simple circuits, and about complete circuits, circuit diagrams and how the number and voltage of cells in a battery affect components in a circuit. 

This unit covers electric current, potential difference, and resistance in series and parallel circuits. It also explores charge separation, electron transfer, and electric fields. The unit focuses on interpreting data, identifying patterns, and drawing conclusions using scientific knowledge.

Series circuits

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Which of the following things need to be done to electrostatically charge a plastic ruler?

Which two of the following are the types of electrostatic charge? 

there is an electrostatic force of attraction between the ruler and paper

there is an magnetic force of attraction between the ruler and paper

there is an gravitational force of attraction between the ruler and paper

A charged ruler is able to pick up the uncharged pieces of paper as shown.
Which of the following statements is correct?

the ruler has a positive and negative terminal

Which of the following statements can correctly describe the ruler shown? 
Select all that apply.

Which of the following will the two balloons shown experience due to their electrical charges?

the charge on both ends of the strip is the same

The ends of the plastic strip shown are pushing away from each other.
Which of the following statements can explain why?
Select all that apply.

1. Which of these materials is a good electrical conductor?

a material that does not allow electricity to pass through

a material that allows electricity to pass through

Which of the following are carry a charge?

Which of the following statements about the structure of an atom is correct?

What happens when you rub your hands together quickly?

Static electricity

Lesson outcome

Content guidance