Simple electrical circuits
Downloads can take a few minutes, especially for larger files or slower connections.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils' prior learning from Everyday materials, where they explored the properties of materials and their uses. In Simple electrical circuits, pupils will learn how to construct basic circuits and understand how electricity flows through components like wires and bulbs. This prepares them for the next unit, Changing circuits, where they will explore more complex circuit designs, including the effects of adding switches and multiple components, deepening their understanding of how electrical systems work.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Distinguish between the object and the material from which it is made
- Identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, plastic, glass, metal, water and rock
- Identify and compare the suitability of a variety of everyday materials for particular uses
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils' prior learning from Everyday materials, where they explored the properties of materials and their uses. In Simple electrical circuits, pupils will learn how to construct basic circuits and understand how electricity flows through components like wires and bulbs. This prepares them for the next unit, Changing circuits, where they will explore more complex circuit designs, including the effects of adding switches and multiple components, deepening their understanding of how electrical systems work.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Distinguish between the object and the material from which it is made
- Identify and name a variety of everyday materials, including wood, plastic, glass, metal, water and rock
- Identify and compare the suitability of a variety of everyday materials for particular uses
Physics
Simple electrical circuits
This unit covers constructing simple series electrical circuits, identifying parts like cells, wires, and switches, and recognising conductors and insulators. It also explores how circuits work with lamps and switches. The emphasis is on practical enquiries, making observations, and presenting data.
10 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the Simple electrical circuits unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our primary science curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for primary science programmes.