Electricity All Around Us

Introduction

Relevant Topics

circuits, electricity, electric currents, parallel circuits, series circuits, magnets, electromagnetism, magnetism, electricity basics, how electricity works, electric storage, batteries, electricity generation, electricity flow, conductivity, conductors, insulators

CURRICULUM

CONNECTIONS

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

Understand how electricity is generated
Describe how circuits work, and the difference between parallel and series circuits
Understand electromagnetism, difference between conductors and insulators, and the flow of electrons in a magnetic field
Understand how power lines function

Electricity All Around Us Activities

Length of Time: 1.5 hours

Building Parallel and Series Circuits

This is a hands-on activity designed to reinforce the notion of parallel and series circuits. Learners will find the idea of series and parallel circuits much easier to understand if they can manipulate real materials and can be rewarded by building successful circuits.

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Length of Time: 1.5 hours

Building a Simple Ammeter

In this activity, learners will build their own simple ammeter using a compass and a magnet wire. By doing the work themselves, they will be able to observe directly the effect electricity has on magnetic fields and, correspondingly, on the behaviour of magnetic materials such as a compass. This is an important step in understanding how electromagnets work and how they can be used in everyday life.

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Length of Time: 2.5 hours

Burglar Alarm

This activity allows learners to combine the concepts of circuits and switches. Learner groups will make a burglar alarm, test it out, and list ideas for improving their alarm.

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