Electronic calculations
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use calculations to determine the resistance, voltage or current at a given point in a control system.
Key learning points
- Ohm's law describes the relationship between voltage, resistance and current.
- We can use Ohm’s law formula to calculate the value of voltage, current and resistance in electrical circuits.
- When calculating component values we often need to change the prefix.
- The technical specifications and dimensions of components are detailed on datasheets.
Keywords
Voltage (V) - the measure of the ‘push’ from a battery that causes charge to be transferred around a circuit
Current (I) - the rate of flow of charge in a circuit
Ohms (Ω) - the unit of resistance
Resistance (R) - is a property of a material, such as a metal, that opposes the flow of current
Ohm’s law - the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit
Common misconception
When we select a component, they are all the same.
Different circuits and control systems require different value components. Changing one will affect the others.
Teacher tip
Read through the tasks to familiarise yourself before the lesson.
Equipment
Access to tinkercad and calculators.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What types of data could be collected from a greenhouse control system?
Q2.Order these units of measurement.
Q3.What is it called when information is gathered which is then fed back into the system?
Q4.Match the unit of measurement to the definition.
measurement of energy consumption
measurement of the flow of electrons
measurement of the electromotive force
measurement of opposition to the flow of electric current
Q5.AC and DC are types of current, match the descriptions.
current flows in one direction only
current direction periodically reverses
Q6.What are the benefits of virtually simulating an electronic circuit or control system?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Ohm's law is the relationship between ...
Q2.A can be used to measure the current, voltage or resistance in a circuit, both physically and virtually.
Q3.Order these current measruements from smallest to largest.
Q4.What does a component data sheet show?
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Electronic calculations, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Electronic calculations, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 design and technology lessons from the Systems approach to design: Sustainable Futures unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.