English National Curriculum - Science Science

4. Explain the causes and effects of electrical resistance

Mission Objectives

Construct circuits independently and describe how the properties of a wire affect resistance

Explain what affects the resistance in a circuit

Investigate and measure resistance in a wire

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Lesson Resources

Lesson Plan

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

resistance

the effect of opposing the flow of electric current

Ohms

the unit of electrical resistance; named after Georg Ohm

resistivity

a measure of a material's ability to oppose the flow of electric current

Georg Ohm

a German physicist and mathematician, for whom the unit of resistance is named

ohmmeter

a device that measures the resistance of a material/component

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This lesson has been written by

Dr Shannon Weldon

Shannon started her journey with Developing Experts by completing PHD placement while studying for her Doctorate in Developmental Biology at the University of East Anglia. Shannon has since joined the team full-time as a Project Manager working with the company's industry partners. Shannon knows a lot about chickens!

Kate Richards

Kate’s journey as a science educator spans over 15 enriching years. Her passion for unravelling the complexities of the human body led her away from medicine (as she hates blood but loves medical t-shows) and into the world of teaching. She’s had the privilege of nurturing young minds in KS3 and KS4 science, guiding A-level Biology students, and even taught year 4 students in Spain, broadening her teaching horizons early in her career. Kate holds a Masters in Teaching (MTeach) and specialises in biology. Her research for her Master's degree focused on the profound impact of self-efficacy on classroom learning. Beyond the classroom, she finds solace in leisurely family walks and exploring new destinations through travel. She finds that the most rewarding aspect of teaching is witnessing those magical "light bulb moments" when students grasp the intricacies of science right before her eyes. 

Required Resources

Resources:

Method 1: meter ruler with a thin uninsulated wire secured to it with masking tape (copper or constantan); connecting wires; crocodile clips and an ohmmeter.

Method 2: meter ruler with a thin uninsulated wire mounted to it with masking tape (copper or constantan); connecting wires; crocodile clips; 2 cells; voltmeter and an ammeter.

Method 3: meter ruler with a thin uninsulated wire mounted to it with masking tape (copper or constantan); connecting wires; crocodile clips; 2 cells and a 1.5V bulb.

Handout: Questions related to the Mission Assignment and space for the students to draw their diagrams.

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