A variable is something that can be changed, measured or kept the same in an investigation.

A component is a device in a circuit that has a specific function.

To predict is to say what you think will happen.

A buzzer is a device in an electrical circuit which makes a noise.

A decibel is a unit used to measure the volume of sound.

Changing the volume of buzzers

Science

Components and simple circuits

Circuit symbols and diagrams

Electrical discoveries and inventions (non-statutory)

Investigating voltage: plan

Investigating voltage: do and review

Variables in electric circuits: plan

Variables in electric circuits: do and review

The position of switches: open and closed

Choosing and using conductors and insulators (non-statutory)

How electrical insulators keep us safe (non-statutory)

Electrical careers

Electrical sensors: design (non-statutory)

Electrical sensors: make and review (non-statutory)

Debating the use of electric cars (non-statutory)

Sustainable sources of electricity (non-statutory)

In the Changing circuits unit, pupils learnt to give reasons for variations in how components function, such as the brightness of bulbs. In the Series circuits unit, they will build on this knowledge to find rules for electric current and voltage in series circuits 

In the Simple electrical circuits units, pupils learnt to construct a simple series electrical circuit, identifying and naming its basic parts. In this Changing circuits unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare and give reasons for variations in how components in a circuit function

This unit explores how circuit components like lamps and buzzers function, including the effect of cell number and voltage. It covers using symbols in circuit diagrams, planning scientific enquiries, taking precise measurements, recording data, and presenting findings with evidence and conclusions.

Changing circuits

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

__________ the number and voltage of cells increases the electrical push they provide.

the diagrams from previous investigations

the equipment from previous investigations

What can scientists use to help them make prediction?

Does this data support the prediction that adding cells to a circuit makes a motor spin faster?

Sensors and data __________ can be used to make and record accurate measurements of light and sound.

Scientists evaluate __________ to compare what was expected to what actually happened.

Why won’t electricity flow around this circuit?

Which of these does not affect the brightness of a bulb in a circuit?

The positive terminal of a {{}} has to be connected to the positive terminal of the cell or battery for it to work.

Which of these would cause a bulb to get dimmer?

Starter Quiz

Why won’t electricity flow around this circuit?