A switch is part of an electrical circuit that can stop or allow electricity to flow.

An electrical circuit is a closed loop or path that electricity can flow around to make an appliance work.

A sensor is a device that can detect and monitor changes.

To detect something is to discover or notice it.

To design something is to make a plan and a drawing describing how it could be built.

Electrical sensors: design (non-statutory)

Science

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

What is the name for a device which detects changes in things like light, temperature, motion, sound or pressure? 

Sensors are used in everyday electrical {{}} such as washing machines, lights, burglar and fire alarms.

Strict safety rules must be followed when you use electrical components near which of these? 

Which type of professionals begin their ideas on paper and in the laboratory, then design and test them to build things that matter and make our lives easier. 

Which of these devices is able to create or close a gap in a circuit?

Which of these materials could act as an electrical conductor in a switch? 

Switches control circuits by making a space between {{}} where electricity cannot flow.

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Electrical sensors: design (non-statutory)

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.