KS3 Current in series / parallel circuits lesson

A full 1 hour KS3 lesson on current in series and parallel circuits.
This lesson was designed for a top set year 8 class, but could be easily adapted for another KS3 class of lower or mixed ability.

This lesson involves a short practical task (could be removed if you wished). For this practical each group will need 1 cell or power pack, 1 ammeter, 2 lamps, 5 wires.

This lesson contains:

• A 5-in-5 retrieval starter
• Retrieval practice hand signals quiz on circuit symbols
• Retrieval practice written quiz on series vs. parallel circuits
• Direct instruction on the rules for current in series and parallel circuits, including models
• Checkpoints (for cold calling)
• An independent worksheet to apply the rules on current in series / parallel circuits
• Modeled answers
• Practical activity with broken down instructions
• Written plenary