KS3 & KS4 science curriculum

This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Circuit components, where they explored the function and behaviour of various electrical components. It deepens their understanding by focusing on Mains electricity, covering how electrical systems operate in homes, safety measures, and energy transmission. As the final unit in the big question, How do electricity and magnetism work?, it reinforces pupils’ understanding of the practical applications of electricity and magnetism in everyday life, linking theoretical concepts to real-world systems.

1. Danger from electric shock
2. Short circuits and earth wires
3. Power of an appliance or electric circuit
4. Calculating with electric charge: including complex calculations
5. The National Grid
6. Transformers
7. Energy resources

• Current = p.d. / resistance (I=V/R).
• The rules of current and p.d. for a series circuit can be applied to find some missing values of current and p.d.
• The rules of current and p.d. for a series circuit can be applied to find some missing values of current and p.d.
• The equation I=V/R can be rearranged so that either p.d. or R is the subject of the equation.
• If any two values in the equation I=V/R are known, the third can be calculated.
• If only one value in the equation I=V/R is known, rules for current or p.d. need to be applied to find a second.
• Power = work done / time.
• Power is measured in Watt (W).