Introduction to Circuits – CE – Clean Energy. Bright Futures.

Introduction to Circuits

Image of AA battery. The battery is labeled with a + and - at the top and bottom. A brown line with yellow arrows separated by e- travels from the bottom of the battery to a lightbulb on the left then on to the top of the battery.

Learning Goals

Learning Goals:

Create a simple circuit on their own when given the appropriate materials.
Diagram the flow of electrons within a circuit.
Differentiate between series and parallel circuits.

Materials List

Handouts

Introduction to Circuits Worksheet

Classroom Supplies (per groups of 4)

One large ziplock bag or plastic bin
2 AA batteries
1 plastic or metal battery holder (for easy connection)
2 insulated wires (alligator clips recommended)
2 small LED bulbs
1 computer per pair of students
Optional: Steve Spangler Energy Stick

Important Links

Next Generation Science Standards

Next Generation Science Standards

MS-PS3-5 (Crosscutting Concepts)

Energy may take different forms (e.g. energy in fields, thermal energy, energy of motion)

Lesson 2 of 6 / Time: 40-50 Mins

This lesson begins with students having hands-on experiences creating electrical circuits using a battery, wires, and a light bulb. Students will learn that electricity is the flow of electrons, and how electricity moves within a circuit.

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