Science at key stage 3    (Year 7)

• make and explain predictions about circuits, eg two connections are needed to light a bulb, there has to be a complete circuit, the battery provides 'something' to the circuit
• support their predictions by demonstration circuits, or circuit diagrams
• explain that the bulb(s) light because electricity travels round the circuit

• present an account in speech, diagrams or writing to explain the working of an appliance
• show their understanding of circuit ideas by successfully finding fault(s)

• describe how increasing the number of bulbs reduces their brightness in a series circuit
• use an ammeter with care
• measure and record current in simple series circuits
• know that current does not change in a simple series circuit, that it is not 'used up' as it travels in the circuit
• use the term 'resistance' in describing circuit effects

• identify a cell or battery as a source of energy
• describe why cells have positive and negative terminals, and connect them correctly in circuits

• distinguish between current and energy, eg current just circulates back to the battery, energy is used to light a bulb
• explain current in terms of a model

• explain how connecting bulbs in parallel allows each to shine equally brightly
• predict and explain measurements of current in different parts of parallel circuits
• explain these observations using a model
• identify strengths and weaknesses of a model for electricity

• use ideas about series and parallel circuits to help decide on a plan
• describe the advantages and disadvantages of different circuit connections

• explain how a fuse protects a circuit
• work safely
• compare predictions with observations, eg current to 'blow' a fuse

• provide descriptions and/or explanations of the effects of electric current on the human body
• describe in a clear sequence the work of scientists in developing ideas and applications of electric current

• determine current values in given circuits