LuduminaEL-05 · EL-U2 · Planned
Series circuits
Learning objectives
Use equal series current, shared p.d. and summed resistance to solve simple circuits.
DfE single-science pp.39–41 / Combined pp.33–34. Evidence checked 30 September–1 October 2026. Skills: WS1.2,3.6; MS3c,3d.
Needs firstEL-04
Explanation
A series circuit has one current path. The same current flows through its components, supply p.d. is shared, and resistor values add. Charge is not consumed as it passes through a lamp.
Concepts, equations and units: R_total=R1+R2; V_supply=sum component p.d.; V=IR; A,V,Ω.
Prediction, demonstration and game exercise
Predict, observe, explain
Add one resistor and predict changed current; measure each p.d. and current.
Planned learner game exercise
Wire a series lamp/resistor circuit to meet a supplied meter target.
Independent practice
Three two-resistor circuit problems and an explanation of removing one lamp.
Original practice example · Shared
A 4 Ω and an 8 Ω resistor are in series across 6 V. Find total R and current.
Show working and model answer
Working / reasoning
R_total = 4 + 8 = 12 Ω; I = 6/12.
Answer
12 Ω and 0.50 A.
Exit check and success criteria
Two correct solutions with consistent current and p.d. accounting.
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
Each resistor gets full supply p.d.; charge is consumed by first lamp.
Practical preparation
RP-P3/RP-C15 series part reinforcement; 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.