Conductor Analyzing CircuitReference ID: C912

http://pathways.nppd.com/C912

Third - High School (3 - 12)

Data collection

Communication

Engineering

Schematic reading

Avoiding assumptions

Trouble shooting

Team work

Insulators and Conductors

Electrical circuits

Team work

Problem Solving

Data Collection

Most students assume rubber is an insulator - but it is essential for them to learn the concept that electricity can travel through any object if there is enough electricity.

All metals are conductors - well they are to a certain extent. Students will encounter objects that are coated with paint etc. that will not conduct. And they are using a fairly small amount of electricity so it may not travel through every metal object they test.

1. Give students the generator, alligator clips, and light bulb.

2. Remind the students that a nice steady pace with the generator will not burn out the lightbulb.

3. Challenge them to connect the circuit to ensure that their lightbulb is functional.

4. Show them the "Conductor Analyzing Circuit" diagram and have them reproduce the circuit shown.

1. Have students find four insulators and four conductors from around the classroom

2. Record all of the objects they test on a chart in their notebooks.

1. Have students share one item from each of their categories

2. Look for anomalies in their lists - Maybe one pair of glasses was a conductor and one was an insulator. Maybe two teams tested the same object with different results. Let students debate, justify, and decide what category these fall under.

3. Tell them every insulator on their list is wrong.

Insulators are defined as objects that do not allow electricity to travel through them easily. A wooden craft stick for example would not conduct electricity in these circuits, but would it protect you from a power line? Rubber gloves are used by lineman all across the country - but these are not what keep them safe. Gloves are rated for specific voltages and cannot exceed those tested ranges. If they use the wrong gloves it would be very dangerous.

Only one thing will keep you safe from electricity - Knowledge. The more you know the safer you will be.

Participation

Per group of 4 or less:

Genecon hand powered generator

Three alligator clips

One light bulb (recycled christmas light is ideal)

Notebook for recording data

various objects around the classroom to test with their analyzing circuit.