Resources: Class presentation, batteries, bulbs, buzzers, alligator clips and wires. 1 thick corrugated cardboard base per pair/group (approximately 25 cm x 25 cm and prepared in advance). A variety of materials which can be used to construct the game, such as paper clips, tin foil, copper wire, rubber bands, tape, paper, and cardboard. Example electric circuit games, if you have them.
Support Handout (1): The handout scaffolds the text boxes using cloze sentences and a word bank.
Core Handout (2): The task on the handout asks children to draw a picture of their loop wire game. They need to use the text boxes to label the material used for the different elements of the game and explain why they used it (insulator or conductor). Instructions to construct the game are included.
Stretch Handout (3): Text boxes are not provided, so children need to independently label the material used for the different elements of the game and explain why they used it (insulator or conductor).
Enquiry Approach - Problem-solving
Applying prior scientific knowledge to solve problems and answer further questions.
Enquiry Skill - Setting up tests
Carefully following a method and using equipment accurately to carry out a scientific enquiry. The method may be designed by teachers or children themselves.
The presentation begins by giving more details about renewable and non-renewable energy sources.
Expert Film: This is Chris. Chris works as a Materials Engineer for Rolls-Royce Submarines. Listen to Chris as he describes how electrical components can change within a circuit.
Recap on the children’s previous learning by asking them what a switch is. Can they tell you how a switch works?
The presentation recaps the main points the children have learnt over the unit. This recap will help them consolidate their learning and prepare them to apply their learning during the Mission Assignment. The presentation also introduces the children to some games that use electric circuits and asks them to discuss how they work. After explaining how a wire loop game works, reinforce the idea that the handle should be wrapped in an insulator to keep the children safe, but the end of the hook needs to be a conductor to complete the circuit. Contact with the wire loop will close the circuit, switching the bulb or the buzzer on.
Discuss safety hazards when it comes to electricity and electric appliances. Explore the important role insulators play in protecting us.
Career Film: Take a tour around Rolls-Royce Submarines' Nuclear Skills Academy to find out about Kal's job. Kal works as a Software Engineer for Rolls-Royce Submarines.
Expert Film: This is Chris. Chris works as a Materials Engineer for Rolls Royce Submarines. Listen to Chris as he describes how electrical components can change within a circuit.
Following the guidance on the handout, the children should create a loop and wire game. They will need to select the materials to make the wire (a conductor) and the loop (a conductor for the loop and an insulator for a handle). Teachers should ensure a range of materials is offered, both conductors and insulators, so that they can assess the children's understanding of them. Children can decide whether to use a buzzer or a bulb in the circuit to show when someone has ‘failed’ the game. Using the handout, children should draw and label a picture of their game. Ask them to identify materials chosen as conductors and insulators for different components in the game. They should test their game to ensure the components work when the loop and wire touch before playing each other’s games. They may wish to create this game in pairs or in small groups.
Challenge Task: Ask the children to explain why they have chosen to use a buzzer or bulb component - Which one is most suitable for the game and why?
Allow the children to play each other’s games and give feedback about them.
A complete circuit is needed for electricity to flow. The cell (battery) provides the energy; wires carry the current, and components (bulb, buzzer) use the energy.
If the loop touches the buzz wire, the circuit becomes complete and the bulb/buzzer activates.
If the loop is touching the wire but the bulb/buzzer doesn't activate, this will mean there is a break or poor connection in the circuit, or the children have used an insulator in the wrong place.
The end of the loop (covered by the handle) needs to be connected to one end of the circuit using an alligator clip and wire. The end of the buzz wire needs to be connected to the other end of the circuit using an alligator clip and wire.
In the game, the buzz wire and loop must be metal (conductor), while the handle of the loop must be insulated so children can hold it safely.
A switch does not need to be added to the circuit, as the loop touching the buzz wire acts as a kind of “automatic switch” to complete the circuit and turn on the buzzer/bulb.
To ensure the activity is completed safely, use low-voltage cells only (AA batteries) — never mains electricity. Ensure insulation is secure on the handle when it is being used in the game. Check that wires and crocodile clips are tight and connections are firm; otherwise, circuits may not work reliably.
A variety of materials can be used to construct this game. As well as the example in the Mission Assignment video, another recommended combination is tin foil scrunched into a shape for the wire game; a paper clip to create a loop, and a strip of paper wrapped around the end of the loop for an insulated handle.
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