SHS2 Physics · Semester 2 Week 5: Electromagnetism

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.3.2.LI.1 - Describe the force exerted on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define magnetic field and describe the magnetic field pattern around a straight current-carrying conductor using iron filings or simulation.
Apply Maxwell’s right-hand corkscrew rule to determine the direction of the magnetic field around a straight conductor carrying current.
Describe the force experienced by a current-carrying conductor placed in a uniform magnetic field, stating the conditions under which the force is maximum and minimum.
Explain the attractive and repulsive forces between two parallel current-carrying conductors based on the direction of current flow.
Demonstrate the magnetic field patterns of a narrow circular coil and a solenoid and compare them with that of a straight conductor.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Electric Field, Magnetic Field and Electronics (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Electromagnetism (3.2)
Content standard: 2.3.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding in analysing the factors that affect the magnetic force on conductors carrying current in a uniform magnetic field. 2.3.2.LO.1 Explain the how current is affected Personal and by the magnetic field using rules and Thinking calculations.
Indicator: 2.3.2.LI.1 - Describe the force exerted on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 5 (Week 25 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 126

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning: Learners in groups of mixed abilities using simulation or laboratory set-up record their observations and describe the magnetic field around a current-carrying conductor:
- straight conductor
- parallel conductor with current in the same direction
- parallel conductor flowing in opposite directions.
- a narrow circular coil
- a solenoid
Guide learners to use Maxwell's right-hand corkscrew rule to determine the direction of the current in relation to withe field. Encourage diverse perspectives and contributions.
Assessment (2.3.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Laptop/Computer
- Projector
- Internet
- Simulation lab software
- Flash cards
- Science kit set
- Magnets
- Iron filings