Using Electricity for Science and Design Technology

Year 6 spent a day exploring electrical circuits before making their own working nightlight.

The children used electrical kits to experiment with circuits before looking at how reducing the voltage – through reducing the number of batteries – slowed down a motor and dimmed a lightbulb.

They looked at symbols used by scientists and electricians to help us build circuits, as well as why conductors and insulators both have important jobs.

They then used these skills to create their own light (complete with switch) before designing a cover for it so that a child could use it as a nightlight. They had previously thought about designs and realised that the simpler the design, the more effective it would be.

Technology Tom led the sessions and as always the children responded to his knowledge and enthusiasm.