SHS1 Engineering · Semester 1 Week 19: Circuit and Machines

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.2.1.LI.6 - Use a software tool to simulate simple circuits to derive current, voltage and power in DC and AC circuits.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Launch a circuit simulation software tool (e.g., Proteus) and build a simple DC circuit containing a resistor and a voltage source.
Place and connect circuit components (DC source, AC source, resistor, inductor, capacitor, and switch) correctly on the simulation workspace.
Run a simulation of a DC circuit and read the current, voltage and power values displayed by the software.
Run a simulation of a single-phase AC circuit and record the RMS current, voltage and power values.
Compare simulated results with hand-calculated values from Kirchhoff’s laws and the power formula, and explain any differences.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Energy Systems (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Circuit and Machines (2.1)
Content standard: 1.2.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge of simple electric circuits based on first principles and through simulation tools. 1.2.1.LO.1 Identify and explain the functions of the elements of dc and ac circuits. 1.2.1.LO.2 Analyse simple dc and single-phase ac circuits.
Indicator: 1.2.1.LI.6 - Use a software tool to simulate simple circuits to derive current, voltage and power in DC and AC circuits.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 19 (Week 19 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. 38

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Problem-based Learning: In a computer lab, explain to learners how to use software to simulate DC and AC circuits. Present various DC and AC circuits for learners to simulate and compare results with hand calculations.

Assessment (1.2.1.AS.6). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 3 Strategic reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Projector
- Laptop
- Videos on dc and ac circuit elements
- Assorted dc and ac electric circuit elements (e.g., Inductors, capacitors, resistors, switches, etc.)
- Whiteboard and marker
- Whiteboard and marker
- Simulation software (e.g., Proteus)