LuduminaEL-01 · EL-U1 · Planned
Circuit language and charge flow
Learning objectives
Use standard symbols; calculate charge flow; explain closed-loop current and current conservation at junctions.
8463 §§4.2.1.1–4.2.1.2 / 8464 §§6.2.1.1–6.2.1.2
DfE single-science pp.39–41 / Combined pp.33–34. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS1.2,4.3; MS3b,3c.
Needs firstP0; EN-02
Explanation
Current is the rate of charge flow, while energy transfer is accounted for separately. A complete circuit allows charge already present in conductors to move. An ammeter goes in series so it measures the same charge flow as the branch.
Concepts, equations and units: Q=It; Q in C, I in A, t in s; conventional current direction distinguished from electron motion.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Translate real circuit to standard schematic; demonstrate ammeter in series and a broken circuit.
Planned learner game exercise
Assemble low-voltage circuits from cells/battery, switch, resistor, variable resistor, lamp, diode, LED, fuse and meter cards; inspect thermistor/LDR symbols.
Independent practice
Three Q/I/t calculations and a symbol-recognition check.
Original practice example · Shared
A current of 0.30 A flows for 20 s. Find charge flow.
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
Q = It = 0.30 × 20.
Answer
6.0 C.
Exit check and success criteria
Two calculations correct and all core symbols correctly used in a closed circuit.
During practice, compare the prediction with evidence and give an error-specific prompt. The exit item uses a fresh context or fresh values, answered independently.
Misconceptions, practical links and mastery
Check these misconceptions
Current is used up; charge comes from nowhere when switch closes; current and energy are the same.
Practical preparation
Optional low-voltage circuit construction, AT6,7.
Virtual preparation and revision only. Required hands-on activities and school records remain separate.
Proposed mastery
0: not yet evidenced. 1: supported. 2: independent exit criteria met. 3: successful changed-context transfer. Advance at 2; revisit with fresh retrieval. These are not GCSE grades.