Electricity | Substitute Teacher
Students will review the basics of electricity, identify key circuit parts, and practice explaining how electricity flows in simple and series circuits. This lesson is designed for a substitute teacher and uses easy, structured activities with short teacher-led instructions, partner talk, and a quick exit assessment.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Electricity | A form of energy associated with the movement of electric charges. |
| Current | The flow of electric charge through a circuit. |
| Voltage | The push that moves charges through a circuit. |
| Resistance | A force that opposes the flow of current. |
| Circuit | A complete path that electricity follows. |
| Closed circuit | A complete circuit that allows current to flow. |
| Open circuit | A broken circuit that stops current from flowing. |
| Conductor | A material that lets electricity pass through easily. |
| Insulator | A material that does not let electricity pass through easily. |
Welcome students, take attendance, and write: 'Where do you see electricity used every day?' Review responses and connect answers to the lesson topic.
Write quick responses and share one example with the class.
Use the board or slides to define the key vocabulary. Show a simple circuit diagram and explain battery, wire, bulb, and switch. Emphasize open vs. closed circuits and basic safety.
Listen, take notes, and answer brief check questions.
Distribute the circuit worksheet. Model one example with the class, then have students label circuit parts and decide whether each diagram is open or closed.
Work individually or with a partner to complete the worksheet.
Give each pair a simple scenario card or circuit question. Ask pairs to explain what happens if a bulb is removed, a wire is broken, or a switch is opened.
Discuss answers with a partner and write one-sentence explanations.
Ask students to draw a simple circuit and label the parts, or complete a short matching activity on vocabulary.
Complete the task quietly and turn it in when finished.
Collect exit tickets or give a short quiz with 4-5 questions on vocabulary, circuit parts, and safety.
Complete the assessment independently.
Review the key idea that electricity needs a complete path to flow. Ask students to name one new vocabulary word and one safety rule before dismissing the class.
Students will complete a short exit ticket or quiz demonstrating understanding of vocabulary, circuit parts, open vs. closed circuits, and electrical safety.
Students will find three examples of electricity used at home and write one sentence explaining how each one depends on a circuit or electrical source.