Create a dimmer switch

Science Year 6
This unit is part of Year 6 Science Electric Celebrations

Objectives

The dragons have added in a last minute design tweak - can you develop and include a dimmer switch into your design?

Science Objectives
i) Compare and give reasons for variations in how components function, including the brightness of bulbs, the loudness of buzzers and the on/off position of switches.

Working Scientifically

  1. Plan different types of scientific enquiries to answer questions, including recognising and controlling variables where necessary.
  2. Take measurements, using a range of scientific equipment, with increasing accuracy and precision, taking repeat readings when appropriate.
  3. Record data and results of increasing complexity using tables, scatter graphs, bar and line graphs.

Other Curriculum Areas
Design and Technology

  • Select from and use a wider range of tools and equipment to perform practical tasks accurately. Select from and use a wider range of materials and components, according to their functional properties and aesthetic qualities. Understand and use electrical systems in their products.

Lesson Planning

Teaching

  • Investigate, design and make a dimmer switch.
  • Describe how a dimmer switch affects resistance.
  • Incorporate a dimmer switch into their design.
  • Identify materials and tools required to make a prototype.

Activities

  1. Investigate and develop a dimmer switch.
  2. Identify materials and tools for their design.

Investigation - problem solving, exploring
Design and make a dimmer switch.

Vocabulary
Electricity, appliances/device, electrical circuit, complete circuit, components, cell, battery, positive/negative, terminal, connect/connection, loose connection, short circuit, wire, crocodile clip, bulb, bright/dim, switch, buzzer, volume, motor, fast(er)/slow(er), conductor, insulator, metal/non metal, voltage, current, resistance