What three things are needed to make a simple electrical circuit?

A power source (like a battery), wires, and something to power (like a light bulb).

Why does a light bulb turn off when a switch is flipped to the 'off' position?

Flipping the switch to the 'off' position creates a break or space in the circuit, stopping the flow of electricity.

The circuit must be complete with no spaces or gaps.

5th GradeScience30 min

aligned to Ngss 4-ps3-2

I can build a simple electrical circuit.

5 min

The Power of Circuits! | Technology for Kids | SciShow Kids

SciShow Kids

6 min

Key concepts students will learn:

•
Electricity flows from a battery to a light bulb along a path called a circuit.
•
A circuit needs to be complete, meaning there can't be any spaces in the path, for electricity to flow.
•
A switch can be used to break a circuit, creating a space that stops the flow of electricity and turns off the light.

10 min

3 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

5 min

“Draw a picture of a simple circuit. Label the battery, wire, and light bulb. Show with arrows which way the electricity flows.”

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