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Science Y3/Y4 – Electricity – week 4

TORCHES
Truth to Teach (Source)

Psalm 119:105 ‘God’s word is a light to our path and a lamp to our feet.’

To learn safety procedures when using electricity.

To explore the parts of a torch – battery, bulb, switch.

Way to Work (Means)

1. Review the work on circuits.

2. Read and discuss Psalm 119:105.

3. Talk about safety when using electricity.
 Not putting objects in plug sockets.

 Not letting water and electricity mix.
 Using the correct carbon dioxide fire extinguishers with electricity fires.
 Switching off electricity as and when necessary.

4. Let the children examine the parts of a torch.
 Battery – invented by Volta in 1800. He realised that some metals and a liquid could work
together to make electricity. The batteries we use today are made of zinc metal covered
with card or plastic to stop any leakage.

There is a carbon rod in the centre of the battery surrounded by a chemical paste from
which the electricity is made. When the chemicals are used the battery needs replacing.

We measure electricity in volts, after Volta. The number of volts describes the pressure
or voltage which pushes electricity along a wire.

Draw attention to the + and – on the batteries and the voltage. Try putting the batteries
into the torch upside down, discussing why the torch won’t work.

 Look at a bulb and discuss the parts, drawing a labelled picture on the board as the
children observe each part. (Filament, glass bulb containing gas, wires supplying
electricity.)

 Switch – point out that there is a complete, continuous circuit in a torch when the switch is
on. The circuit is broken if it is switched off.

5. Some children may like to find out about Morse Code which relies on electrical signals.

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