Electrostatics · SHS1 Physics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.3.1.LI.1 - Explain how the gold leaf electroscope can be used to detect the charge carried by a body.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Draw and label the main parts of a gold leaf electroscope (metal cap, metal rod, gold leaves, glass case).
Explain, step by step, how a gold leaf electroscope detects the presence of charge on a body.
Distinguish between charging by contact and charging by induction when using the electroscope.
Predict what will happen to the gold leaves when a positively charged rod, a negatively charged rod, or an uncharged body is brought near or touches the electroscope cap.
Use the behaviour of the gold leaves to state whether a charged body carries a positive or negative charge.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Electric Field, Magnetic Field and Electronics (Strand 3)
Sub-strand: Electrostatics (3.1)
Content standard: 1.3.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the differences between conductors, semiconductor and insulators. 1.3.1.LO.1 Distinguish between conductors, insulators and semiconductors based on the behaviour of electrons as charge carriers.
Indicator: 1.3.1.LI.1 - Explain how the gold leaf electroscope can be used to detect the charge carried by a body.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 4 (Week 24 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. 61

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning:
- Draw and describe the mode of operation of the gold leaf electroscope to learners.
- Learners record their observations as the electroscope is used in a physical or virtual laboratory simulation or watch a video and record their observations.
- Recall and identify the types of charges and explain electrical neutrality.
- Explain the types of charging - friction/contact, induction and conduction.
Provide equitable access to physics resources, equipment, technology, and opportunities for hands- on experiments or projects, ensuring all learners have equal access to Learning resources and experiences.
Assessment (1.3.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Gold leaf electroscope,
- Combs
- Shreds of paper
- Glass rods
- Videos
- Interactive virtual laboratory.