English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Investigate how the resistance of an LDR changes with light intensity
Investigate how the resistance of a thermistor changes with temperature
Explain how changes in resistance of LDRs and thermistors can be applied in real-world devices
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Words and meanings to learn
thermistor
a type of resistor whose resistance decreases as temperature increases (NTC type) or increases as temperature increases (PTC type); used in temperature sensors and controlling devices like fans or ovens
resistance
a measure of how much a component opposes the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω)
control variable
the variable(s) kept constant in an experiment to ensure a fair test
LDR (light dependant resistor)
a type of resistor whose resistance decreases as the light intensity falling on it increases; used in devices such as street lights, cameras and security systems
fixed resistor
a resistor with a set resistance value that does not change with conditions like temperature or light; used to limit current in a circuit
Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.
Samantha has written the complete KS4 Science curriculum, fully aligned with the AQA GCSE Science: Trilogy specification. Covering biology, chemistry and physics, the curriculum is carefully sequenced so that students build knowledge cumulatively and see clear connections between concepts across the three sciences. Drawing on her experience as an examiner and on research into effective teaching, she has designed it to embed retrieval practice, clear explanation, worked examples and the required practicals throughout, preparing students for the demands of the GCSE exams. Grounded in the realities of the classroom, the curriculum is rigorous for students and manageable for busy teachers.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket.
12V Power supply, 4.5 V bulbs, wires, multimeters, ammeters, voltmeters, croc clips, thermometers, LDR, thermistors, beakers for hot water.
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