An electrical circuit is a closed loop or path that electricity can flow through to make a component work.

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

A circuit symbol is a simple picture or shape used to represent a component in a circuit diagram.

A circuit diagram is a pictorial representation of a circuit.

Circuit symbols and diagrams

Science

Components and simple circuits

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

Changing the volume of buzzers

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-stat Climate Change & Sustainability)

Sustainable sources of electricity (non-stat Climate Change & Sustainability)

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

Circuit {{}} are small images that represent different electrical components.

to make sure everyone uses art as well as science

to allow everyone to understand how a circuit is made

Which of these things show how a circuit is connected together?

Which circuit diagram matches the circuit drawing?

A set of electrical signs telling you which exercises to do.

A closed loop that electricity can flow through to make something work.

An electric light in the shape of a circle.

Which of these is an electrical component?

What is the name given to the two ends of a cell or battery?

Using science language, which image shows a battery?

Which terminal is the arrow pointing at in the picture?

Which diagram correctly shows the direction of flow of electricity around the circuit?

Circuit symbols and diagrams

Lesson outcome

Content guidance