Activity Overview
Common circuit symbols exist as a near universal language in electrical engineering and can save a lot of confusion. Having standard circuit symbols allows circuit diagrams to be drawn and understood around the world. In this activity, they will create a storyboard that matches each component of an electrical circuit with their symbol and use. This is a great way to introduce students to the symbols they'll need to master and draw when designing circuits.
Circuit Component Symbols Example
| Wire | Wires are used to connect different components together. They are made of metal and allow current to flow through them. |
|---|---|
| Battery | A battery provides the push to move the charge around the circuit. |
| Resistor | A resistor is a component that reduces the current in a circuit. |
| Variable Resistor | A variable resistor is a resistor which can have its resistance changed. |
| Lamp | A lamp is a component with a filament that glows when a current is passed through it. Lamps can be used to see things in the dark. |
| Switch | A switch is a component that can break the circuit allowing other components to be turned on and off. A light switch is an example of a switch. |
| Voltmeter | A voltmeter is used to measure the potential difference or amount of push between two parts in a circuit. |
| Ammeter | An ammeter is used to measure the size of a current in a circuit. |
| Motor | A motor spins when it is connected to a circuit. It could be used to make a toy car move. |
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T-Chart that matches components of an electrical circuit with their symbols and uses.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Find the circuit symbols by searching "circuits" or "science".
- Put each of the circuit symbols in the cells on the left.
- Identify each symbol by replacing "TERM".
- In the right hand column, create a visualization and write a sentence to describe what the component can be used for.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description of uses | All the circuit components have well described uses with few grammar and spelling mistakes. | Most of the circuit symbols have well described uses with some spelling and grammar mistakes. | Some of the circuit symbols have well described uses with some spelling and grammar mistakes. |
| Circuit Symbols | All circuit symbols correctly identified. | Most circuit components correctly identified. | Some symbols correctly identified. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Common circuit symbols exist as a near universal language in electrical engineering and can save a lot of confusion. Having standard circuit symbols allows circuit diagrams to be drawn and understood around the world. In this activity, they will create a storyboard that matches each component of an electrical circuit with their symbol and use. This is a great way to introduce students to the symbols they'll need to master and draw when designing circuits.
Circuit Component Symbols Example
| Wire | Wires are used to connect different components together. They are made of metal and allow current to flow through them. |
|---|---|
| Battery | A battery provides the push to move the charge around the circuit. |
| Resistor | A resistor is a component that reduces the current in a circuit. |
| Variable Resistor | A variable resistor is a resistor which can have its resistance changed. |
| Lamp | A lamp is a component with a filament that glows when a current is passed through it. Lamps can be used to see things in the dark. |
| Switch | A switch is a component that can break the circuit allowing other components to be turned on and off. A light switch is an example of a switch. |
| Voltmeter | A voltmeter is used to measure the potential difference or amount of push between two parts in a circuit. |
| Ammeter | An ammeter is used to measure the size of a current in a circuit. |
| Motor | A motor spins when it is connected to a circuit. It could be used to make a toy car move. |
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a T-Chart that matches components of an electrical circuit with their symbols and uses.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Find the circuit symbols by searching "circuits" or "science".
- Put each of the circuit symbols in the cells on the left.
- Identify each symbol by replacing "TERM".
- In the right hand column, create a visualization and write a sentence to describe what the component can be used for.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description of uses | All the circuit components have well described uses with few grammar and spelling mistakes. | Most of the circuit symbols have well described uses with some spelling and grammar mistakes. | Some of the circuit symbols have well described uses with some spelling and grammar mistakes. |
| Circuit Symbols | All circuit symbols correctly identified. | Most circuit components correctly identified. | Some symbols correctly identified. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Circuit Components and Their Uses
Plan a hands-on circuit building activity using common components
Engage students by letting them apply circuit symbols in real life. This activity helps make abstract concepts concrete and boosts understanding through active exploration.
Gather and prepare materials for safe student use
Collect batteries, wires, bulbs, switches, and resistors—all items referenced in the lesson. Check each item for safety and proper working order before class to ensure a smooth activity.
Model how to connect components following a circuit diagram
Show students how to interpret a simple circuit diagram using the symbols they've learned. Demonstrate connecting wires, batteries, and bulbs on a real board to mirror the diagram.
Guide students as they build their own simple circuits
Support students as they follow a diagram to assemble a working circuit. Encourage them to observe what happens when they add or remove components, fostering curiosity and problem-solving.
Facilitate reflection and discussion about circuit function
Lead a group discussion to help students connect hands-on experiences to the symbols and uses from the T-Chart. Ask questions like, “What did you notice when the switch was open or closed?”
Frequently Asked Questions about Circuit Components and Their Uses
What are the main components of an electrical circuit and their uses?
Electrical circuit components include wires (connect parts), batteries (provide power), resistors (reduce current), variable resistors (adjust resistance), lamps (produce light), switches (control flow), voltmeters (measure voltage), ammeters (measure current), and motors (create motion). Each has a unique symbol and function in a circuit.
How can I teach students to match circuit symbols to their components?
Use a T-Chart activity: place circuit symbols in one column and have students match them with the correct component name and use in the other. Visual aids and hands-on examples help reinforce recognition and understanding.
What is the best way to introduce circuit symbols to elementary students?
Start with common symbols and relate them to real-life objects, then use interactive storyboards or visual matching games. This makes learning symbols engaging and helps students remember their meanings.
Why is it important for students to learn standard circuit symbols?
Standard circuit symbols provide a universal language, allowing students to read and draw electrical diagrams accurately. This skill is essential for communication in science and engineering worldwide.
What simple classroom activities help students learn about circuit components?
Try hands-on projects like building circuits, drawing diagrams with symbols, or group T-Chart matching exercises. These activities encourage exploration and reinforce knowledge of component uses and symbols.
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