The lights don't always go out when the switch is flipped. The 10th lesson in a series of 14 helps learners build a conceptual understanding of the flow of electricity through a parallel circuit. They then build their own parallel circuits to keep a light bulb lit.

Concepts

electricity, circuits, parallel circuits, electric circuits

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• After using tennis balls, use string or yarn so pupils have a record of the multiple possible paths
• Have students pin their numbers to their shirts to help facilitate the activity

Classroom Considerations

• Expects a deep understanding of the flow of electricity in a series circuit

Pros

• Includes an exit card to assess understanding at the completion of the activity
• Uses kinesthetic activities to keep individuals involved

Cons

• None