Electricity | Substitute Teacher
Students explore electricity as a form of energy by connecting it to body movement, simple circuits, and safe everyday examples. This substitute-friendly lesson uses discussion, movement, and a quick hands-on sorting activity to keep the class engaged with very low prep.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| electricity | A form of energy that powers lights, devices, and many tools we use every day. |
| energy | The power needed to do work or make things move. |
| circuit | A complete path that electricity follows. |
| battery | A small source of electricity that stores energy. |
| conductor | A material that lets electricity move through it easily. |
Ask: 'Where do you see electricity in daily life?' Write a few responses on the board. Briefly explain that electricity is a type of energy that helps things work.
Share examples such as lights, phones, computers, and elevators.
Explain that the body also uses energy to move. Lead a short movement break: march in place, stretch arms, and make slow jumping-jack motions. Ask students to notice how their bodies feel when using energy.
Follow the movements and describe how their bodies feel before and after moving.
Introduce the key words using simple definitions and examples. Keep it brief and write each word on the board.
Repeat the words aloud and connect each word to a familiar example.
Give students cards or read items aloud. Ask them to sort examples into 'uses electricity' and 'does not use electricity' or 'needs a circuit' and 'does not need a circuit.' Use simple examples such as lamp, fan, bicycle, flashlight, and book.
Work individually or with a partner to sort the examples and explain their choices.
Draw a simple circuit on the board: battery, wire, bulb. Explain that electricity needs a complete path to work. Ask students to trace the path with a finger and say 'complete circuit' when the path is closed.
Trace the circuit on the board or in the air and answer yes/no questions about whether a circuit is complete.
Review the main points: electricity is energy, circuits must be complete, and we use electricity in many everyday places. End with one quick question: 'Name one thing that uses electricity.'
Respond with one example and listen for the closing summary.
Ask students to share one new thing they learned about electricity. Summarize that electricity is energy, it often travels in circuits, and it helps many things work in everyday life.