In this unit, students expand their understanding of electricity through investigations with wires, batteries, bulbs, and switches. Their experiences introduce them to the following concepts, skills, and attitudes.

• A complete electric circuit is required for electricity to light a bulb.
• A complete circuit can be constructed in more than one way using the same materials.
• Different types of electric circuits show different characteristics.
• A switch can be used to complete or interrupt a circuit.
• Some materials conduct electricity; these are called conductors.
• Some materials do not conduct electricity; these are called insulators.
• Electricity can produce light and heat.
• A diode conducts electricity in one direction only.

• Wiring simple electrical circuits.
• Predicting, observing, describing, and recording results of experiments with electricity.
• Drawing conclusions about circuits from the results of experiments.
• Building and using a simple circuit tester.
• Using symbols to represent the different parts of an electric circuit.
• Building a simple switch.
• Applying troubleshooting strategies to complete an incomplete circuit.
• Applying information about electric circuits to design and build a flashlight.
• Applying information about electric circuits to design and wire a house.
• Reading to learn more about electricity.
• Communicating results and ideas through writing, drawing, and discussion.

Attitudes

• Appreciating the need for safety rules when working with electricity.
• Developing an interest in electricity.
• Developing confidence in being able to analyze and solve a problem.