Electricity | Substitute Teacher
Students will explore the idea of electricity as a form of energy that can make things work. Through movement, sorting, observation, and simple demonstrations, children will learn that electricity powers many everyday objects and can be dangerous, so it must be used safely. This substitute-friendly lesson uses hands-on, age-appropriate activities with strong safety emphasis.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| electricity | A kind of energy that helps things work |
| energy | Power that makes things move, light up, or happen |
| power | To make something work |
| safe | Not hurting us; following rules to stay protected |
| device | An object made by people that can do a job |
Show a picture of a lamp, fan, and toy. Ask, 'What do these have in common?' Explain that electricity is energy that helps many things work. Keep language simple and use gestures.
Look, listen, and share ideas about which objects need electricity.
Teach and model three rules: never put fingers in outlets, never touch cords without an adult, and ask an adult before using electrical items. Use a visual sign and have children repeat the rules.
Repeat safety rules aloud and demonstrate safe hands by keeping hands to themselves.
Place picture cards in a pile. Model sorting one or two examples into 'Uses Electricity' and 'Does Not Use Electricity.' Then invite children to help sort the rest.
Take turns choosing cards, naming objects, and placing them in the correct group.
Use yarn on the floor to make a pretend path. Explain that electricity travels along a path to help things work. Have children walk the path in order, following directions like 'start,' 'stop,' and 'go' to reinforce sequence.
Walk carefully along the path, follow directions, and describe the path using simple words.
Turn on a battery-powered flashlight or toy. Ask children to observe what happens when it is switched on and off. Prompt them to notice light, sound, or movement if available.
Watch closely, describe what they see, and compare on/off results.
Give children paper and crayons. Ask them to draw one thing that uses electricity and one thing that does not. Help children label with words or dictate labels.
Draw, color, and explain their pictures to an adult or partner.
Review the vocabulary and safety rules. Ask quick oral questions: 'What is electricity?' 'Name one thing that uses electricity.' 'What should we do before using an electrical device?'
Answer questions, repeat key words, and show safe behaviors.
End with a class chant: 'Electricity gives power, but safety comes first!' Review the main idea that electricity helps things work, and we must use it safely with adult help.
Observe students during sorting, oral responses, and the flashlight demonstration. Use the checklist to note whether each child can identify electrical items, state a safety rule, and explain an observation. Collect the drawing page as a simple performance-based assessment.