SHS3 Physics · Semester 1 Week 18: Direct Current

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.3.1.LI.1 - Explain the key terminologies of circuitry and how they are related to one another.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define the key terminologies of circuitry: load, source, switch/key, closed circuit, open circuit, electric charge, resistance, potential difference, emf, internal resistance, and lost volts.
Explain the relationships among these quantities, including how 1 coulomb of charge relates to current in amperes, how potential difference relates to work done per unit charge, and how emf relates to the terminal voltage plus lost volts.
Distinguish clearly between conventional current flow and electron flow, and draw correct circuit diagrams to illustrate both.
Calculate the lost volts in a circuit given the emf and terminal potential difference, using the relationship V_lost = E - V_terminal.
Apply the understanding of these relationships to explain why the terminal voltage of a battery drops when a large current is drawn.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Electric Field, Magnetic Field and Electronics (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Direct Current (3.1)
Content standard: 3.3.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate an understanding of current electricity and its related quantities. 3.3.1.LO.1 Using the knowledge on current electricity to solve problems involving resistance and power in electrical circuits.
Indicator: 3.3.1.LI.1 - Explain the key terminologies of circuitry and how they are related to one another.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 18 (Week 18 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. 173

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Talk for learning: Recall and derive the quantities of electricity (e.g., load, source, switch/key, closed circuit, open circuit, electric charge, resistance, potential difference, emf, internal resistance and lost volts).
Collaborative learning: In groups, research and explain the differences between conventional current flow and electron flow and draw appropriate circuit diagrams to explain this.
Ensure that the teaching materials, examples, and illustrations reflect diverse perspectives
Assessment (3.3.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Audio-visuals
- Internet,
- Projectors
- YouTube
- Interactive laboratory
- Connecting virtual wires
- Ammeter
- Galvanometer
- Voltmeter
- Resistance
- Rheostats box