Electech STEM Support for Schools and Colleges Curriculum

National Curriculum – Yr 4 Session

Link to Year 4 Programme of Study for Science

Lesson Objectives – Yr 4 Session (1hour)

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

  1. Construct a simple series electrical circuit, identifying and naming its basic parts (cells, wires, bulbs, switches, buzzers, and a semiconductor device such as a diode).
  2. Identify whether or not a lamp will light in a simple series circuit, based on whether the lamp is part of a complete loop with a battery.
  3. Recognize that a switch opens and closes a circuit and associate this with whether or not a lamp lights in a simple series circuit.
  4. Recognize common conductors and insulators, and understand that metals are good conductors.
  5. Understand the role of a simple semiconductor device (such as a diode) in controlling the flow of electricity in a circuit, and identify how it differs from basic circuit components like wires.

National Curriculum – Yr 6 Session

Link to Year 6 Programme of Study for Science

Lesson Objectives – Yr 6 Session (1hour)

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

  1. Use a transistor as a switch or amplifier in an electrical circuit.
  2. Associate the brightness of a lamp or the volume of a buzzer with the number and voltage of cells used in a circuit.
  3. Compare and explain variations in how components function, including the brightness of bulbs, the loudness of buzzers, and the on/off position of switches.
  4. Use recognized circuit symbols to represent a simple circuit in a diagram.
  5. Construct a circuit using a phototransistor and an NPN transistor to create an automatic night light that turns on in the dark.

Materials Provided

Easy to Use: Snap-together components work just like Lego, making it simple for young learners to assemble circuits without fuss.

Child-Friendly Instructions: Students can easily follow the clear, step-by-step instructions independently or with teacher support.

Progressive Learning: Projects range from very simple (like lighting up a bulb with a switch) to more advanced setups, building skills gradually.

Fast-Paced and Engaging: Early projects are quick to complete, allowing students to explore several exciting circuits in one session.