Choosing and using conductors and insulators (non-statutory)
I can explain the difference between electrical conductors and insulators and can identify where each type of material should be used.
Choosing and using conductors and insulators (non-statutory)
I can explain the difference between electrical conductors and insulators and can identify where each type of material should be used.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- An electrical conductor is a material that allows electricity to pass through it easily.
- An electrical insulator is a material that does not allow electricity to pass through it easily.
- Electrical insulators help keep us safe from the dangerous effects of electricity flowing through conductors.
- Scientists and engineers choose different materials that are electrical conductors and insulators to solve problems.
Keywords
Electricity - Electricity is needed for lighting, heating and making machines and appliances work.
Electrical conductor - An electrical conductor is a material that allows electricity to pass through it easily.
Electrical insulator - An electrical insulator is a material that does not allow electricity to pass through it easily.
Appliance - An appliance is a device or piece of equipment designed to perform a specific task.
Common misconception
Only metals are electrical conductors. All non-metals are electrical insulators.
Children will be taught some non-metals are poor insulators, e.g. water as it can contain dissolved minerals which are electrical conductors.
Equipment
Equipment to make a buzz-wire game: buzzers, cells, stiff wire, flexible wire, tape, stiff board or polystyrene to act as a stand and other materials which are insulators and conductors.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
a material that allows electricity to pass through it easily
a material that does not allow electricity to pass through it easily
Exit quiz
6 Questions
