Direct Current · SHS3 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.3.1.LI.2 - Determine the current flowing through a branch in an electrical network.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Apply Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL) to identify the relationship between currents entering and leaving a junction in a circuit.
Apply Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL) to set up loop equations for a simple electrical network.
Solve simultaneous equations to determine the current flowing through a specific branch in a two-loop circuit.
Distinguish between situations where the voltage divider rule and the current divider rule can simplify the calculation of branch currents.
Verify branch current calculations using digital simulation tools (e.g., PhET circuit simulator or virtual labs).

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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.3 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Kirchhoff's laws of electrical network. 3.3.1.LO.3 Explain the Kirchhoff's laws and applications.
Indicator: 3.3.1.LI.2 - Determine the current flowing through a branch in an electrical network.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 1 (Week 21 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. 175

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Talk for learning: Explain and identify voltage and current dividers and solve appropriate problems.
Recognise diverse talents and perspectives.
Assessment (3.3.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 3 Strategic reasoning; 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
- Standard box resistors