Lesson 1: Graphite circuits

The children explore making circuits using graphite as a conductor and draw circuit diagrams with symbols.

Before the lesson

Classroom resources

Learning objective

  • To make a functional graphite circuit

National curriculum

Pupils should be taught to:

  • Understand and use electrical systems in their products [for example, series circuits incorporating switches, bulbs, buzzers and motors]

Success criteria

Cross-curricular links

Attention grabber

Main event

Differentiation

Pupils needing extra support: Model each demonstration individually for pupils or in small groups, one stage at a time as they complete the circuit. Print the photos from the 'Science projects for kids- Graphite circuit' sheet that shows how to make the circuit at each stage for those with weaker working memories.

 

Pupils working at greater depth: Ask the children to complete the extension activity or act as an electrical systems assistant and support their peers in troubleshooting and completing the circuits.

Wrapping up

Assessing pupils' progress and understanding

Vocabulary

Created by:
Vicki Risianova,  
Design and Technology specialist
After 4 years of being a TV and radio presenter, Vicki headed to the secondary classroom where she spent 12 years teaching Design and Technology as well as PE. Working as a subject leader, she ran D&T tournaments and weekly…
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