Series and Parallel Circuits
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Objective
I can analyze series and parallel circuits
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Bozeman Science · 8:05Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by Bozeman Science on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
In a series circuit, the current is the same through every component, and all components must be working for current to flow.
- 2
In a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of the currents in each parallel pathway, and the voltage drop is the same along each pathway.
- 3
Adding more resistance in a series circuit will decrease the amount of current, resulting in dimmer light bulbs.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
8 questions
What is the main difference between a series and a parallel circuit in terms of the pathways for electricity to flow?
In a series circuit, if one component fails (e.g., a light bulb burns out), what happens to the rest of the circuit and why?
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain the difference in how removing one light bulb affects the circuit in a series circuit versus a parallel circuit.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
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