Physics : Electricity 2
Overview
In this topic, we build on the knowledge gained from Year 7. Students use their mathematical skills to calculate various unknowns in electrical circuits, including the use of Ohm’s Law, Electrical Charge, Potential Difference and the behaviour of resistors in series and parallel circuits. We take a closer look at electricity in the home, with a focus on the wires within a plug and the difference between AC and DC.
The main SMSC/Personal Development content of this topic includes: PD22 – Use of a range of social skills in different contexts, for example working and socialising with other pupils, including those from different religious, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.
The main UN Rights of a Child covered are No. 13 – Sharing thoughts freely and No. 28 – Access to Education
Example Key Words
Earth Wire
A copper wire coated in striped plastic that provides a path for current to flow from the case of the device to the ground if there is a fault.
Live Wire
A copper wire coated with brown plastic, along which the current enters the device
Neutral Wire
A Copper wire coated with blue plastic that also connects to the cable in the wall and completes the circuit
Alternating Current
Also called ac. An electric current that regularly changes its direction and size.
Direct Current
Also called dc. An electric current that flows in one direction only.