S2.8.6 For the adult
A simple circuit
Why will my bulb not light with just one wire?
What this chapter teaches
A circuit is a complete loop of cell, wires and bulb, and a gap anywhere stops it. A bulb has two contact points, and a wire must touch both.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- Why will a bulb not light with just one wire?
- What do you think happens if you lift one wire off the bulb?
- How does the switch on a torch turn the bulb on and off?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Build a circuit with a cell, wires and a bulb
- Explain why a circuit must be a complete loop
What they copy into their notebook
A circuit is a path all the way round. A bulb lights in a complete loop of cell, wires and bulb. A gap stops it. Both contact points of the bulb must be in the loop.