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Objective: To build a simple circuit in order to describe how energy is transferred to produce light.

Energy Note: How do circuits work?

Drill: 1. Take out your Log Book. 2. Look around the room. 3. List as many items as you can that run

on electricity.

SIMPLE CIRCUITS

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Activity 1: Let’s Create a Circuit?

1. Examine the materials list below.a. 1 D cellb. 2 wiresc. 1 flashlight bulb

2. Brainstorm with your group how to set up the materials to light up the bulb.

3. Test your idea.4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 if your idea doesn’t

work.5. Draw a labeled diagram of your successful

setup.

SIMPLE CIRCUITS

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DefinitionsElectric CircuitA complete unbroken path through which electric charges (electrons) can flow

Electric CurrentThe continuous flow of electrical charges (electrons) through a material

Why was your circuit successful in making the bulb light up?

SIMPLE CIRCUITS

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LETS EXAMINE A BULB

Why do bulbs light up?

SIMPLE CIRCUITS

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Homework: Research

1. Why do bulbs light up?2. Electric Circuits

SIMPLE CIRCUITS

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Objective: To build a simple circuit in order to describe how energy is transferred to produce light.

Energy Note: How do circuits work?

Drill: 1. Take out your Log Book. 2. What causes a bulb to actually light

up?

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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Light bulbs are fairly simple. They have 2 posts, one connected to the bottom of the base of the bulb and the other to the side.

The two metal posts are connected by a thin metal filament.

When the circuit is active, the electrons flow from one post to the other through the filament.This creates “friction” within the filament. Because the filament is so thin, it heats up and ultimately gives off light.

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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A switch is used to open and close a circuit, turning it off and on.

Determine how you would add the switch to control the bulb.

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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Activity 2: Diagramming Circuits

Does your diagram look exactly like those of the other groups? Is this good or bad? Explain.

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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Scientists use a standard set of symbols when diagramming circuits so that they can be read and interpreted universally.

Look at the standard symbols below.

cell wire appliance bulb switch

Sketch your diagram using proper circuit symbols.

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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Summary: Brainpop

Electric Circuits

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2

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HomeworkLab Analysis1. Describe what caused the bulb to light. Use

information from your investigation for support.

2. Explain why it is necessary to have a closed circuit. Use information from the investigation and prior knowledge to support your answer.

3. Describe the 2 energy transformations that take place in the circuit. One occurs in the cell. The other occurs in the bulb.

SIMPLE CIRCUITSDay 2